A processive motor takes steps

PHYSICS · Multi-part · Fermi University Physics · Biophysics & Medical Physics · Molecular machines, transport and bioenergetics · Molecular machines, transport and bioenergetics

Forces, Machines and Signals, Ch Enzymes and molecular motors

Problem

A processive motor takes

5.0\,\mathrm{nm}

steps, hydrolysing one ATP per step. Under cellular conditions the free energy released per ATP is

\Delta\mu = 25\,k_BT

, at

T = 298\,\mathrm{K}

(

k_BT = 4.11\,\mathrm{pN\,nm}

). Assume tight mechanochemical coupling. ((a)) Find the largest possible stall force the motor could exert. ((b)) Find the motor's efficiency when it works against a load of

4.0\,\mathrm{pN}

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