DNA Structure and Function Quiz

What does DNA stand for?

• Deoxyribonucleic Acid

• Dioxynucleic Acid

• Deoxyribosenucleic Acid

• Dioxoribonucleic Acid

Answer explanation

DNA stands for Deoxyribonucleic Acid. It is the correct choice because it is the full and accurate name for the molecule that carries genetic information in all living organisms.

What is the shape of DNA?

• Single strand

• Double helix

• Triple helix

• Circular loop

Answer explanation

The shape of DNA is a double helix, which consists of two strands twisted around each other in a spiral. This structure allows for the replication and transmission of genetic information.

What are the sides of the DNA double helix made of?

• Amino acids & proteins

• Sugars & phosphate

• Nitrogenous bases & sugars

• Phosphate & amino acids

Answer explanation

The sides of the DNA double helix are made of sugars and phosphate, as indicated by the correct answer choice.

What type of sugar is found in DNA?

• Glucose

• Fructose

• Ribose

• Deoxyribose

Answer explanation

The sugar found in DNA is deoxyribose. Deoxyribose is a type of sugar that forms the backbone of DNA strands.

Who are credited with the discovery that DNA is a double helix?

• Franklin and Wilkins

• Watson and Crick

• Chargaff and Watson

• Crick and Franklin

Answer explanation

Watson and Crick are credited with the discovery that DNA is a double helix.

According to Chargaff's rules, which of the following is true about the bases in DNA?

• A + G = T + C

• A + C = T + G

• A + T = G + C

• A + T = C + G

Answer explanation

According to Chargaff's rules, the correct statement about the bases in DNA is that A + T = G + C.

Which of the following are the four bases of DNA?

• Adenine, Thymine, Guanine, Cytosine

• Adenine, Uracil, Guanine, Cytosine

• Alanine, Thymine, Glycine, Cytosine

• Adenine, Thymine, Glutamine, Cytosine

Answer explanation

The four bases of DNA are Adenine, Thymine, Guanine, and Cytosine. These bases form the building blocks of DNA and pair up to create the double helix structure. Adenine pairs with Thymine, and Guanine pairs with Cytosine.

What is the role of hydrogen bonds in DNA structure?

• They create the backbone of the DNA strand.

• They hold the complementary bases together.

• They form the double helix structure of DNA.

• They connect DNA to RNA during transcription.

Answer explanation

Hydrogen bonds in DNA hold the complementary bases together, ensuring the stability of the double helix structure.

During which phase of the cell cycle does DNA replication occur?

• G1 phase

• S phase

• G2 phase

• M phase

Answer explanation

DNA replication occurs during the S phase of the cell cycle. This is when the DNA is duplicated to prepare for cell division.

Why is DNA replication considered semi-conservative?

• Because each new DNA molecule contains one old strand and one new strand.

• Because the DNA molecule is conserved without any changes.

• Because only half of the DNA molecule is replicated.

• Because the DNA replication occurs in a conservative environment.

Answer explanation

DNA replication is considered semi-conservative because each new DNA molecule contains one old strand and one new strand.