1. What is the Bioline Molecular Weight Calculator?

The Bioline Molecular Weight Calculator estimates the molecular weight of oligonucleotides by summing the molecular weights of individual bases and accounting for water loss during polymerization.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( base\_masses \) — Array of molecular weights of individual bases (g/mol)
• \( n \) — Number of bases in the sequence
• 18 — Molecular weight of water (g/mol) removed during polymerization

Explanation: The formula accounts for the loss of one water molecule for each phosphodiester bond formed between nucleotides.

3. Importance of Molecular Weight Calculation

Details: Accurate molecular weight calculation is essential for PCR primer design, oligonucleotide synthesis, and various molecular biology applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter base masses as comma-separated values in g/mol and the number of bases. All values must be valid (number of bases > 0, base masses > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why subtract (n-1)*18 in the formula?
A: This accounts for the loss of n-1 water molecules during the formation of phosphodiester bonds between n nucleotides.

Q2: What are typical base masses?
A: Common nucleotide monophosphates: dAMP (331.2), dTMP (322.2), dGMP (347.2), dCMP (307.2), but check your specific bases.

Q3: Does this work for modified nucleotides?
A: Yes, as long as you input the correct molecular weights for any modified bases in your sequence.

Q4: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a theoretical molecular weight. Actual experimental values may vary slightly due to isotopic distribution and other factors.

Q5: Can I use this for RNA sequences?
A: Yes, but be sure to use the correct molecular weights for ribonucleotides rather than deoxyribonucleotides.