Question

there is an enormous diversity of biomolecules used in cellular life. each of the molecules requires one or more proteins to be synthesized, folded, and/or regulated. scientists are interested in understanding the minimum number of proteins, coded for by genes, required for life. most free - living bacteria carry between 1,000 to 2,000 genes. however, parasitic bacteria such as mycoplasma spp. carry as few as 500 genes. based on this knowledge, what might be the minimum number of genes required for life? hundreds thousands ten thousand twenty thousand

Explanation:

The text mentions that parasitic bacteria like Mycoplasma spp. carry as few as 500 genes and are living organisms. This indicates that the minimum number of genes required for life is in the hundreds range.

Answer:

hundreds