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View Full Version : Microbiology Quiz Question (transcription/DNA replication)


negatifzeo
Feb16-11, 02:57 PM
This was a quiz question recently in my microbiology class:

In what way are transcription and DNA replication compartmentalized in eukaryotes?
a. they occur in the same compartment
b. they occur in separate compartments
c. one must be finsished before the others start
d. they are coupled
e. they are not compartmentalized

Admittedly, this question has more to do with semantics than biology I think, but isn't "e" the more appropriate answer than "a"? If two things occur in the same compartment, then they aren't compartmentalized, are they? I'd love to hear what you guys think.

Ygggdrasil
Feb16-11, 04:29 PM
They are compartmentalized in that they occur only within a specific area of the cell (the nucleus), as compared to a process that takes place everywhere within the cell. Although the processes are not compartamentalized from each other, I would still call "a" the correct answer.