AP Bio Insta-Review Topic 1.6: Nucleic Acids

Front

What is the structure of DNA?

Back

DNA is a double helix structure composed of two strands that are antiparallel and held together by hydrogen bonds between complementary nitrogenous bases.

Front

What is the structure of RNA?

Back

RNA is usually single-stranded and can fold into various shapes, allowing it to perform different functions in the cell.

Front

What are the four nitrogenous bases found in DNA?

Back

Adenine (A), Thymine (T), Cytosine (C), and Guanine (G).

Front

What are the four nitrogenous bases found in RNA?

Back

Adenine (A), Uracil (U), Cytosine (C), and Guanine (G).

Front

What is the difference between ribose and deoxyribose?

Back

Ribose is a five-carbon sugar found in RNA, while deoxyribose is a five-carbon sugar found in DNA, lacking one oxygen atom.

Front

What is the function of DNA?

Back

DNA stores genetic information and provides instructions for the development, functioning, growth, and reproduction of all living organisms.

Front

What is the function of RNA?

Back

RNA plays a crucial role in protein synthesis and can also have regulatory and catalytic functions.

Front

What is the significance of the 5’ and 3’ ends of a DNA strand?

Back

The 5’ end has a phosphate group, while the 3’ end has a hydroxyl group, determining the directionality of DNA replication and transcription.

Front

What is meant by 'antiparallel' in the context of DNA?

Back

Antiparallel refers to the orientation of the two strands of DNA running in opposite directions, one from 5’ to 3’ and the other from 3’ to 5’.

Front

What is a nucleotide?

Back

A nucleotide is the basic building block of nucleic acids, consisting of a nitrogenous base, a pentose sugar, and a phosphate group.