Ethanol (CH3-CH2-OH) is miscible in water because it is able to form hydrogen bonds with itself and other molecules. However, its structure only allows it to form 1-2 hydrogen bonds. This is one reason why even low concentrations of ethanol in solution are lethal for cells. Based on this information, explain why we can use high concentrations of ethanol to precipitate DNA out of solution. Also, describe/predict the effects of increasing concentrations of ethanol in (and around) a cell on macro-molecular interactions (i.e. on weak bonds). Finally, it is possible to select for yeast that are tolerant to increased concentrations of ethanol. Give an example of a physiological change in yeast cells that might make them resistant to ethanol.
Ethanol (CH3-CH2-OH) is miscible in water because it is
able to form hydrogen bonds with itself and other molecules. However, its structure only allows it to form 1-2 hydrogen bonds. This is one reason why even low concentrations of ethanol in solution are lethal for cells.
Based on this information, explain why we can use high concentrations of ethanol to precipitate DNA out of solution.
Also, describe/predict the effects of increasing concentrations of ethanol in (and around) a cell on macro-molecular interactions (i.e. on weak bonds).
Finally, it is possible to select for yeast that are tolerant to increased concentrations of ethanol. Give an example of a physiological change in yeast cells that might make them resistant to ethanol.
Trending now
This is a popular solution!
Step by step
Solved in 2 steps
