key term - Photo 51

Definition

Photo 51 is an X-ray diffraction image of DNA taken by Rosalind Franklin in 1952, which provided critical evidence for the helical structure of DNA. This iconic image was crucial in revealing the dimensions and arrangement of the DNA molecule, ultimately leading to the understanding of how genetic information is stored and transmitted.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Photo 51 revealed a distinct X-pattern indicative of a helical structure, which was key to understanding DNA's shape.
2. Rosalind Franklin used a method called X-ray crystallography to create photo 51, which involved directing X-rays at DNA fibers and analyzing the resulting diffraction patterns.
3. The image provided important measurements for the dimensions of the DNA helix, including its width and spacing between base pairs.
4. Despite its significance, Franklin's contributions were often overlooked, with Watson and Crick receiving more recognition for the discovery of the DNA structure.
5. The insights gained from photo 51 helped establish the foundation for molecular biology, influencing fields such as genetics and biotechnology.

Review Questions

• How did photo 51 contribute to our understanding of DNA's structure?
  • Photo 51 was pivotal in demonstrating that DNA has a helical structure. The X-ray diffraction pattern provided key insights into the dimensions of the molecule, showing that it twisted into a double helix. This visual evidence played a significant role in confirming theories about genetic information storage and set the stage for later discoveries in molecular biology.
• Discuss the role of Rosalind Franklin's work, particularly photo 51, in the context of the scientific community at that time.
  • Rosalind Franklin's work with photo 51 highlighted her expertise in X-ray crystallography and was vital to identifying the helical structure of DNA. However, her contributions were not fully acknowledged within the male-dominated scientific community of her time. The eventual success of Watson and Crick's double helix model showcased how essential Franklin's findings were, yet it also reflected the challenges faced by women scientists in gaining recognition for their groundbreaking work.
• Evaluate the impact of photo 51 on subsequent developments in genetics and molecular biology.
  • Photo 51 had a profound impact on genetics and molecular biology by providing definitive evidence for the double helix structure of DNA. This understanding paved the way for further research into genetic coding, replication mechanisms, and protein synthesis. The knowledge gained from photo 51 also spurred advancements in biotechnology, such as gene editing and cloning techniques, fundamentally transforming our approach to studying life at a molecular level and revolutionizing medicine and agriculture.

Related terms

DNA double helix: The structure of DNA consisting of two strands that coil around each other, forming a helical shape crucial for its function in genetic coding.

Rosalind Franklin:

A pioneering scientist whose work in X-ray crystallography was fundamental to the discovery of the DNA structure, particularly through her creation of photo 51.

Watson and Crick: James Watson and Francis Crick were the scientists who proposed the double helix model of DNA, building on the findings from photo 51 and other research.