If a cell were to use only 10 of the 20 possible amino acids, how much effect would you expect this to have on protein diversity? Calculate and compare the number of different sequences that can be generated by randomly assembling either 10 or 20 amino acids into peptides that are five residues long.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the number of possible sequences for each scenario: To calculate the number of different sequences that can be generated, use the formula n^k, where n is the number of amino acids available and k is the length of the peptide. In this case, k = 5.
2. Calculate the number of sequences using 10 amino acids: Substitute n = 10 into the formula, so the calculation becomes 10^5.
3. Calculate the number of sequences using 20 amino acids: Substitute n = 20 into the formula, so the calculation becomes 20^5.
4. Compare the results: Calculate the ratio of the number of sequences possible with 20 amino acids to those possible with 10 amino acids to understand the impact on protein diversity.
5. Interpret the findings: A higher number of available amino acids significantly increases the diversity of possible peptide sequences, which can affect the structure and function of proteins in an organism.