Question: A bioinformatician analyzes a DNA sequence where the number of mutations follows $ m(n) = n^2 - 4n + 7 $. What is $ m(3) $?

Sun, 03 May 2026 08:11:37 +0000

Understanding Mutation Patterns in DNA Research: Solving $ m(n) = n^2 - 4n + 7 $ at $ n = 3 $ In bioinformatics, analyzing DNA sequences is fundamental to uncovering genetic variations that influence health, disease, and evolution. One key metric in this analysis is the number of mutations, which can be modeled mathematically to predict trends and interpret experimental data. A common model used in such studies is a quadratic function of the form: $$
m(n) = n^2 - 4n + 7
$$ where $ n $ represents a specific sequence parameter — such as position, generation, or experimental condition — and $ m(n) $ denotes the estimated number of mutations at that point.