HOW BIG
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Microcosm

Size of bacteriophage T4: a length of 200 nm

The adopted reference is about 200 nm.

approximate length

nm means nanometer: a unit used for molecules and tiny features in computer chips. Imagine 1 millimeter split into one million equal pieces: one piece measures 1 nm.

A head and a tail allow this virus to infect certain bacteria.

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Bacteriophage T4, interpreted illustration
Interpreted illustration · dimension stated in the fact sheet.

What does this number measure?

A head and tail allow this virus to infect certain bacteria. Displayed dimension: approximate length.

The length reference includes a representative viral structure. This number is not a universal size for all viruses.

Compare the stated dimensions

The comparison uses the number in each fact sheet: altitude, height, diameter, length or distance, depending on the reference. Two values in metres do not necessarily describe the same property.

Source and limitations

Catalogue value to check against the source; not individually audited.

Bacteriophage T4: elongated head, tail sheath, baseplate and articulated fibres. Interpreted structural model; approximate head-to-tail body length, excluding the extension of the long fibres.