How Many Influenza Viruses Land on You from a Cough?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the number of influenza A viruses that land on a person from a cough. The influenza A virus has a diameter of 85 nm, leading to a calculated volume of approximately 3.21E-5 cm³ for a single virus. Given that 0.010 cm³ of saliva contains 1/10^9 of viral particles, the calculation indicates that around 3.11E-7 particles are present. The participants emphasize the importance of correctly applying the volume formula for spheres and considering the spherical nature of both the virus and the saliva.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of spherical volume calculations using the formula V = 4/3 x π x r³
  • Knowledge of the dimensions and characteristics of the influenza A virus
  • Familiarity with scientific notation and unit conversions
  • Basic principles of viral transmission and particle distribution in fluids
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of spherical viruses, focusing on influenza A virus morphology
  • Learn advanced volume calculations for irregular shapes in biological contexts
  • Research the dynamics of viral transmission through respiratory droplets
  • Explore the implications of viral load in saliva and its impact on infection rates
USEFUL FOR

Students in biology or virology, educators teaching about viral transmission, and researchers studying influenza virus dynamics.

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Homework Statement


A typical virus is a packet of protein and DNA (or RNA) and can be spherical in shape. The influenza A virus is a spherical virus that has a diameter of 85 nm. If the volume of saliva coughed onto you by your "friend" with the flu is 0.010 cm3 and 1/109 of that volume consists of viral particles, how many influenza viruses have just landed on you?


Homework Equations


V = 4/3 x pie x r^3


The Attempt at a Solution


I'm thinking that I should take half of 85nm which is 42.5nm and plugging it into the volume formula for a spherical. The volume of the whole spherical virus comes out to be 3.21E-5.

3.21E-5 / 0.010cm^3 = .00321

1/10^9 of .00321 = 3.11E-7 particles?
 
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Its easier if you use nanometers in the original volume calculation. Secondly you would not divide the virus volume by the saliva volume, you need to do this the other way round. Thirdly I don't know if they want you take the spherical nature of the virus into account and assume spherical saliva which could make a big difference. You'll know what your teacher wants more than me.
 

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