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Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of DNA in living organisms?
Which of the following best describes the importance of DNA's unique structure?
How have scientific studies of DNA contributed to various fields of study?
Which of the following is NOT a critical function of DNA in living organisms?
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According to the information provided, what is the primary purpose of the image showing the sequence of DNA?
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What are the two purines found in DNA nucleotides?
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How are the two strands of DNA held together?
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Which nucleotide is a pyrimidine in DNA?
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What is the sugar molecule present in DNA nucleotides?
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In the structure of DNA, what does guanine always pair with?
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Study Notes
DNA
DNA stands for Deoxyribonucleic Acid. It is the molecule that contains all of the genetic instructions used in the growth, development, functioning, and reproduction of all living organisms. DNA is made up of two strands coiled together to form a double helix structure, which looks like a twisted ladder. Each strand is composed of nucleotides, which are linked by sugar-phosphate backbone and connected through a pair of complementary nitrogenous bases. These base pairs are adenine (A) with thymine (T), guanine (G) with cytosine (C).
Structure of DNA
DNA is a large, complex molecule consisting of two strands of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA. Each nucleotide is made up of three components: a sugar molecule (deoxyribose), a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. Adenine (A) and guanine (G) are purines, while cytosine (C) and thymine (T) are pyrimidines. The nucleotides are connected by a sugar-phosphate backbone, with the phosphate group from one nucleotide bonded to the sugar group of the nucleotide next to it.
Each strand of DNA is twisted around the other to form a right-handed helix, known as a double helix. The two strands are held together by hydrogen bonds between the nitrogenous bases. Adenine always pairs with thymine, and guanine always pairs with cytosine.
Functions of DNA
DNA serves several critical functions in living organisms:
- Storage of genetic information: DNA is the primary carrier of genetic information, which is passed from parents to their offspring during reproduction.
- Genetic instructions for the development and function of organisms: DNA provides the genetic instructions necessary for the development, growth, and maintenance of living organisms.
Importance of DNA
DNA's unique structure allows it to store and transmit genetic information, enabling life to evolve over millions of years. Since its discovery, scientists have studied DNA extensively, leading to numerous breakthroughs in genetics, biology, medicine, and evolutionary science.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the structure and functions of DNA, including nucleotides, base pairing, double helix structure, genetic information storage, and organism development. Explore the fundamental concepts of DNA and its significance in genetics, biology, and evolutionary science.
