Which of the following wavelengths of light cause Thymine dimer mutations?

• A. X-Rays.
• B. Microwaves.
• C. UV light.
• D. Visible light.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of Thymine dimers: Thymine dimers are a type of DNA damage caused by the covalent bonding of two adjacent thymine bases in a DNA strand. This occurs when DNA is exposed to certain types of radiation.
2. Identify the type of radiation responsible for Thymine dimer formation: Thymine dimers are primarily caused by ultraviolet (UV) light, which has enough energy to induce the formation of these dimers.
3. Differentiate between types of radiation: X-rays and microwaves are forms of electromagnetic radiation, but they do not typically cause Thymine dimer mutations. X-rays can cause other types of DNA damage, while microwaves are generally not energetic enough to affect DNA.
4. Consider the energy levels of different wavelengths: UV light has a wavelength range of approximately 100 to 400 nm, which is sufficient to cause Thymine dimer formation. Visible light, with longer wavelengths, does not have enough energy to cause such mutations.
5. Conclude that UV light is the correct answer: Based on the energy levels and the ability to cause Thymine dimer mutations, UV light is the correct answer among the options provided.