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Microcosm

Poliovirus: size, dimension and comparison

The adopted reference is about 30 nm.

Approximate 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 protein capsid protects its RNA.

Explore at this scale
Poliovirus, interpreted illustration
Interpreted illustration · dimension stated in the fact sheet.

What does this number measure?

A protein capsid protects its RNA. Displayed dimension: approximate 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 Ribosome in the explorer →

Source and limitations

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

Poliovirus: a model of a non-enveloped capsid with an approximately icosahedral structure. Schematic protein distribution and colours; approximate diameter.