HOW BIG
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Microcosm

Ribosome: size, dimension and comparison

The adopted reference is about 25 nm.

Representative diameter

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 molecular machine assembles proteins from a genetic message.

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

What does this number measure?

A molecular machine assembles proteins from a genetic message. Displayed dimension: representative diameter.

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.

Compare with Poliovirus in the explorer →

Source and limitations

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

Ribosome: interpretation of its two subunits and a strand of messenger RNA in their groove. The surface, conformation and colours are conceptual, not validated molecular coordinates; representative diameter of the whole structure.