The solution structure of a mutant calmodulin (des84) lacking Glu84 in the central helix linking the two calmodulin lobes is substantially different from its crystal structure. As determined by small-angle X-ray scattering, the radius of gyration and the maximum linear dimension of des84 in the presence of 0.1 mM calcium are 20.8 A and 62.5 A, respectively. These respective dimensions are larger than those expected from the crystal structure of des84, 18.5 A and 55.0 A, and smaller than those expected from the crystal structure of wild type, 22.8 A and 67.5 A. The distance distribution function of des84 indicates that it assumes an elongated, dumbbell shape in solution. The solution scattering profile of des84 is indistinguishable from that of wild-type calmodulin. The calcium-dependent binding of melittin to des84 causes a change in its shape from elongated to spherical, as seen with other calmodulins. In comparison with calcium-saturated des84, calcium-free des84 is slightly elongated; a slight compaction is observed with native calmodulin. The observed differences between the averaged solution structure and the crystal structure of des84 suggests that an ensemble of structures is available to calmodulin in solution and that its target need not induce a change in its conformation. These results support the theory that the linker region of the central helix of calmodulin functions as a flexible tether.