DNA Notes Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

Write out the full name of DNA.

Deoxyribonucleic Acid

What is a gene?

A segment of DNA that codes for a trait

Where in the cell are chromosomes located?

Nucleus of the cell

DNA can be found in what two organelles?

Chloroplasts and mitochondria Signup and view all the answers

What two scientists established the structure of DNA?

James Watson and Frances Crick Signup and view all the answers

What is the shape of DNA?

Double helix or a spiral shape Signup and view all the answers

What are the sides of the DNA ladder made of?

Alternating sugar and phosphate Signup and view all the answers

What are the rungs of the DNA ladder made of?

Thymines, adenines, guanines, cytosines Signup and view all the answers

What sugar is found in DNA?

Deoxyribose Signup and view all the answers

What sugar is found in RNA?

Ribose Signup and view all the answers

The two purines in DNA are?

Adenine and Guanine Signup and view all the answers

How do the bases bond together?

A bonds with Thymine and G bonds with Cytosine Signup and view all the answers

DNA is made of repeating units called?

Nucleotides Signup and view all the answers

Why is RNA necessary to act as a messenger?

RNA takes the message of the DNA to the ribosomes and tells them what proteins are to be made. Signup and view all the answers

Why can't the code be taken directly from the DNA?

The RNA is faster. Signup and view all the answers

Proteins are made where in the cell?

In the ribosome Signup and view all the answers

How do some cells become brain cells and others become skin cells?

Gene expression differs among cells, leading to specialized functions. Signup and view all the answers

Why is DNA called the Blueprint of Life?

Every cell in your body has the same 'blueprint' or, as it is really called, DNA. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

DNA Overview

Full name of DNA is Deoxyribonucleic Acid.
DNA consists of segments called genes, which code for specific traits.

DNA Structure and Location

Chromosomes, which contain DNA, are located in the nucleus of the cell.
DNA is found in chloroplasts and mitochondria, indicating its role in energy and photosynthesis.

Discovery and Shape

The DNA structure was established by scientists James Watson and Frances Crick.
DNA has a double helix shape, resembling a spiral ladder.

DNA Ladder Components

The sides of the DNA ladder are composed of alternating sugar (deoxyribose) and phosphate molecules.
The rungs of the DNA ladder consist of nitrogenous bases: thymine, adenine, guanine, and cytosine.

Sugar in DNA and RNA

The sugar found in DNA is deoxyribose, while ribose is the sugar found in RNA.

DNA Bases and Bonding

The two purines in DNA are adenine and guanine.
Base pairing occurs as adenine bonds with thymine and guanine pairs with cytosine.

Fundamental Units

DNA is made up of repeating structural units known as nucleotides.

RNA Functionality

RNA serves as a messenger by transporting the genetic "message" from DNA to ribosomes, which are the sites of protein synthesis.
RNA is preferred over direct DNA code transfer due to its speed.

Protein Synthesis

Proteins are synthesized in the ribosome, which reads the RNA message to assemble amino acids into proteins.

Cell Specialization

While all cells share the same DNA, differentiation into specific cell types (e.g., brain cells, skin cells) occurs due to the selective expression of genes.

DNA Significance

DNA is referred to as the "Blueprint of Life" because it carries the complete genetic instructions needed for the development and functioning of all living organisms.

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Description

Test your knowledge on DNA with these flashcards. From the full name of DNA to its location in the cell, this quiz covers essential concepts about genetics. Perfect for students looking to reinforce their understanding of deoxyribonucleic acid and its functions.