DNA Structure and Replication Practice

Front

What is DNA?

Back

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is the molecule that carries the genetic instructions for life. It is composed of two strands that coil around each other to form a double helix.

Front

What is the structure of DNA?

Back

DNA has a double helix structure, consisting of two long strands of nucleotides twisted around each other. Each nucleotide is made up of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

Front

What are the four nitrogenous bases in DNA?

Back

The four nitrogenous bases in DNA are Adenine (A), Thymine (T), Cytosine (C), and Guanine (G). Adenine pairs with Thymine, and Cytosine pairs with Guanine.

Front

What is the role of helicase in DNA replication?

Back

Helicase is an enzyme that unwinds and separates the double-stranded DNA into single strands, allowing each strand to be copied during replication.

Front

What is the function of DNA polymerase?

Back

DNA polymerase is an enzyme that synthesizes new DNA strands by adding complementary nucleotides to the growing DNA chain during replication.

Front

What does semiconservative replication mean?

Back

Semiconservative replication means that each new DNA molecule consists of one original strand and one newly synthesized strand.

Front

What is the first step of DNA replication?

Back

The first step of DNA replication is the separation of the two strands of the double helix.

Front

What happens if DNA polymerase is not functioning?

Back

If DNA polymerase is not functioning, the parent DNA can be separated, but no new complementary nucleotides can be added, preventing DNA replication.

Front

What is a mutation?

Back

A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence that can lead to changes in the structure and function of proteins, potentially causing diseases.

Front

What is the significance of base pairing in DNA?

Back

Base pairing ensures that the genetic information is accurately copied during DNA replication, maintaining the integrity of the genetic code.