DNA Structure and Function Concepts

What is the primary function of DNA in living organisms?

• To provide structural support for cells.

• To store genetic instructions and program cell activities.

• To transport oxygen throughout the body.

• To regulate body temperature.

What are the individual repeating units that make up a DNA molecule?

• Amino acids

• Monosaccharides

• Nucleotides

• Fatty acids

Which three components make up a single DNA nucleotide?

• A 5-carbon sugar, a phosphate group, and an amino acid.

• A 5-carbon sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

• A 6-carbon sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

• A 5-carbon sugar, a lipid, and a nitrogenous base.

If one strand of a DNA molecule has the base sequence 5'-AGGTCGG-3', what is the sequence of the complementary strand?

• 3'-TCCAGGC-5'

• 3'-AGGTCGG-5'

• 5'-TCCAGGC-3'

• 5'-AGGTCGG-3'

Who was the Swiss biologist credited with first discovering DNA in 1869?

• James Watson

• Francis Crick

• Friedrich Miescher

• Rosalind Franklin

What significant aspect of DNA structure did Rosalind Franklin help confirm using X-ray diffraction?

• That DNA contains genetic information

• The presence of proteins in DNA

• The helical structure of DNA

• The process of DNA replication

During DNA replication, which enzyme is responsible for unwinding the DNA double helix and separating the two strands?

• DNA Polymerase

• RNA Primase

• DNA Ligase

• Helicase

Why is the lagging strand of DNA synthesized in short segments, known as Okazaki fragments, during replication?

• To correct errors in the DNA sequence.

• Because DNA polymerase can only add nucleotides in the 5' to 3' direction.

• To allow for the attachment of DNA ligase.

• To prevent the DNA from re-zipping too quickly.