DNA Flashcard for 10th Grade Students

Front

What is the overall shape of a DNA molecule called?

Back

Double helix

Answer explanation

The overall shape of a DNA molecule is called a 'double helix'. This structure consists of two intertwined strands, resembling a twisted ladder, which is essential for its function in genetic information storage.

Front

What are the individual units that make up DNA called?

Back

Nucleotides

Answer explanation

The individual units that make up DNA are called nucleotides. Each nucleotide consists of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base, which together form the building blocks of DNA.

Front

Which of the following is NOT one of the three parts of a nucleotide? Options: Phosphate, Sugar, Base, Enzyme

Back

Enzyme

Answer explanation

A nucleotide consists of three parts: a phosphate group, a sugar molecule, and a nitrogenous base. An enzyme is not a part of a nucleotide, making 'Enzyme' the correct answer as it does not belong to the nucleotide structure.

Front

How many different types of bases are there in DNA?

Back

4

Answer explanation

DNA contains 4 different types of bases: adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G). Therefore, the correct answer is 4.

Front

What concept ensures that A always pairs with T and C always pairs with G in DNA?

Back

Complementary base pairing

Answer explanation

The concept of complementary base pairing ensures that adenine (A) pairs with thymine (T) and cytosine (C) pairs with guanine (G) in DNA, maintaining the structure and stability of the double helix.

Front

What structure forms the outer part of the DNA molecule, protecting the bases?

Back

Sugar phosphate backbone

Answer explanation

The sugar phosphate backbone forms the outer structure of the DNA molecule, providing stability and protection for the nitrogenous bases that carry genetic information.

Front

In the genetic code, how many bases form a "triplet" that codes for an amino acid?

Back

3

Answer explanation

In the genetic code, a triplet consists of 3 bases that together code for a specific amino acid. This is fundamental to the process of translation in protein synthesis, making 3 the correct answer.

Front

What is the term for a specific sequence of bases that codes for a particular protein?

Back

Gene

Answer explanation

A gene is a specific sequence of bases in DNA that codes for a particular protein. It is the fundamental unit of heredity, distinct from chromosomes and alleles, which are broader terms related to genetic information.