What is the Greatest Info Density? DNA Holds Record

In summary, info density refers to the amount of information that can be stored in a given unit of space or data, often used in the context of DNA as a storage medium. DNA stores information through the sequence of nucleotides, with an estimated maximum info density of 215 petabytes per gram. Compared to traditional data storage methods, DNA has a much higher info density and is more durable. Potential applications of using DNA as a storage medium include long-term data storage, archiving important information, and space exploration missions.
  • #1
Archosaur
331
1
What is the greatest theoretical information density?
I don't care if you can read the stored information or not.

From what I understand, DNA currently holds the record for information density.
 
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  • #2
DNA isn't even close. Highest density I've seen done experimentally is 1024 bits of data stored on a single 5CB (C18H19N) molecule. That's nearly 30 bits per atom on average.
 
  • #3
K^2 said:
...nearly 30 bits per atom on average.

Wow! How on Earth is it stored?!
 

1. What is info density?

Info density refers to the amount of information that can be stored in a given unit of space or data. It is commonly used in the context of DNA as a storage medium.

2. How does DNA store information?

DNA stores information through the sequence of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA. The four nucleotides, adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine, can be arranged in countless combinations to encode vast amounts of information.

3. What is the greatest info density that DNA can hold?

The greatest info density that DNA can hold is estimated to be around 215 petabytes per gram, making it one of the most efficient storage mediums known to man.

4. How does DNA compare to traditional data storage methods?

DNA has a much higher info density compared to traditional data storage methods, such as hard drives or flash drives. It is also more durable and can potentially last for thousands of years without degradation.

5. What are the potential applications of using DNA as a storage medium?

The potential applications of using DNA as a storage medium are vast, including long-term data storage, archiving important information, and even storing large amounts of data in small spaces for space exploration missions.

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