Bellringer: DNA Structure

Front

What is a nucleotide composed of?

Back

A nucleotide is composed of a phosphate group, a sugar (deoxyribose), and a nitrogenous base.

Front

What does DNA stand for?

Back

DNA stands for Deoxyribonucleic Acid.

Front

What forms the sides (backbone) of the DNA ladder?

Back

The sides of the DNA ladder are formed by deoxyribose (sugar) and phosphate.

Front

What are the four nitrogen bases in DNA?

Back

The four nitrogen bases in DNA are adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine.

Front

How would you best describe the structure of a DNA molecule?

Back

A DNA molecule is best described as a double helix.

Front

What is the role of nitrogenous bases in DNA?

Back

Nitrogenous bases pair with each other to form the rungs of the DNA ladder, facilitating genetic coding.

Front

What is the difference between DNA and RNA?

Back

DNA contains deoxyribose sugar and is double-stranded, while RNA contains ribose sugar and is single-stranded.

Front

What is the function of DNA?

Back

The function of DNA is to store and transmit genetic information.

Front

What is the significance of the double helix structure of DNA?

Back

The double helix structure allows for the efficient packing of DNA and the accurate replication of genetic information.

Front

What are complementary base pairs in DNA?

Back

Complementary base pairs are adenine paired with thymine, and cytosine paired with guanine.