DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the hereditary material in humans and almost all other organisms. It carries genetic instructions for development, functioning, growth and reproduction. The structure of DNA is a double helix, resembling a twisted ladder. The sides of the ladder are made of sugar (deoxyribose) and phosphate molecules, while the rungs are formed by pairs of nitrogenous bases: Adenine (A) with Thymine (T), and Guanine (G) with Cytosine (C). These bases are held together by hydrogen bonds.
Match the terms on the left with their definitions on the right:
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| 1. Nucleotide | A. The sugar found in DNA |
| 2. Deoxyribose | B. The sequence of these determines the genetic code |
| 3. Base Pair | C. The building block of DNA, consisting of a sugar, phosphate, and a base |
| 4. Double Helix | D. The structure of DNA, resembling a twisted ladder |
| 5. Nitrogenous Bases | E. A pair of complementary bases (A with T, or G with C) that connect the two strands of DNA |
Complete the following paragraph with the correct terms:
DNA is a double-stranded molecule with a __________ shape. The two strands are held together by __________ bonds between the __________. Adenine pairs with __________, while Guanine pairs with __________. The backbone of each strand is made of __________ and __________.
Explain how the structure of DNA allows it to be easily replicated. Be specific about which structural components contribute to accurate replication.
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