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Questions and Answers
What stabilizes the structure of the DNA double helix?
What stabilizes the structure of the DNA double helix?
- Van der Waals forces between the strands
- Hydrogen bonds between the base pairs (correct)
- Ionic bonds between phosphate groups
- Covalent bonds within the sugar backbone
Which statement accurately describes the orientation of DNA strands?
Which statement accurately describes the orientation of DNA strands?
- Both strands are parallel to each other
- Strands are oriented randomly in a double helix
- One strand runs from 3' to 5', and the other runs from 5' to 3' (correct)
- Both strands run in the same direction, 5' to 3'
What is the role of the sugar and phosphate molecules in DNA?
What is the role of the sugar and phosphate molecules in DNA?
- To form the base pairs
- To contribute to the helical shape
- To form the sides of the DNA ladder (correct)
- To create the hydrogen bonds
Which pairing rule regarding base pairs in DNA is correct?
Which pairing rule regarding base pairs in DNA is correct?
What characteristic of the DNA double helix ensures a consistent shape?
What characteristic of the DNA double helix ensures a consistent shape?
Flashcards
Double-stranded DNA
Double-stranded DNA
DNA is formed of two strands intertwined in a spiral shape, resembling a staircase.
Antiparallel DNA strands
Antiparallel DNA strands
The two strands of DNA run in opposite directions, like a one-way street going both ways.
Complementary Base Pairing
Complementary Base Pairing
Adenine (A) always pairs with Thymine (T), and Cytosine (C) always pairs with Guanine (G).
DNA Backbone
DNA Backbone
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Hydrogen Bonds in DNA
Hydrogen Bonds in DNA
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Study Notes
DNA Structure
- DNA is a double-stranded molecule, shaped like a spiral staircase or helix.
- The two strands are antiparallel, running in opposite directions (5' to 3' and 3' to 5').
- The DNA structure resembles a twisted ladder, with the sugar-phosphate backbone forming the sides and the base pairs forming the steps.
- The backbone is composed of alternating deoxyribose sugar and phosphate molecules.
- Base pairs follow specific rules: Adenine (A) pairs with Thymine (T), and Cytosine (C) pairs with Guanine (G).
- This complementary base pairing occurs via hydrogen bonds (2 between A and T, 3 between C and G).
- Hydrogen bonds stabilize the structure of the DNA double helix.
- The consistent base pairing maintains a uniform diameter for the DNA double helix.
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