Both DNA and RNA Polymerases Must Be Able to Copy

question 33

Essay

Both DNA and RNA polymerases must be able to copy from a template strand with great accuracy. Still, either one can make mistakes that could lead to a mutation. For which one of these polymerases would a mistake be the most serious in the long term? Explain your answer.

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Definitions:

Opportunity Cost

The detriment of neglecting the next optimal alternative during the process of making a decision.

Opportunity Cost

The benefit that is missed or given up when choosing one alternative over another.

Hour

A unit of time equal to 60 minutes.

Opportunity Cost

Skipping over the possibility of gain from multiple options by deciding on a single one.