Simple Plasmid Mapping Problem

[fakecop]

Homework Statement

Use the following data to create a plasmid map.

Number of base pairs for each restriction enzyme
A: 20
B : 11 6 3
A & B: 7 6 3

Homework Equations

The entries under the category "number of base pairs" could repeat themselves as they represent actual data obtained from gel electrophoresis. E.g. 11, 6, 3 could actually be 11, 6, 6, 3

The Attempt at a Solution

I believe this question is impossible due to the number "11" for restriction enzyme B. When both restriction enzymes (A and B) are applied the sequence with length 11 either remains intact or gets chopped up into pieces of length 7, 6, or 3 respectively. But there are no positive integer solutions for the equation 7x+6y+3z=11.

 

[nate808]

Therefore, it is not possible to create a plasmid map with these restrictions.

However, if we assume that the data provided is not completely accurate and 11 is actually 10, then a possible plasmid map could be created as follows:

Plasmid Map:

A: 20 bp
B: 10 bp
A & B: 7 bp - 6 bp - 3 bp

This map assumes that restriction enzyme A cuts the plasmid at 20 base pairs and restriction enzyme B cuts at 10 base pairs. When both enzymes are applied, the resulting fragments are 7, 6, and 3 base pairs in length. This would fit the data provided and create a possible plasmid map. However, without further clarification on the accuracy of the data, this solution is only speculative.