Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
DNA Primary Structure
The primary structure of DNA refers to the linear sequence of deoxyribonucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA. Each deoxyribonucleotide consists of a phosphate group, a deoxyribose sugar, and a nitrogenous base (adenine, thymine, cytosine, or guanine). This sequence determines the genetic information carried by the DNA molecule and is crucial for the formation of higher-order structures.
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DNA Secondary Structure
The secondary structure of DNA is characterized by the formation of a double helix, where two strands of DNA run in opposite directions (antiparallel) and are held together by hydrogen bonds between complementary bases (adenine pairs with thymine, and cytosine pairs with guanine). This structure is stabilized by base-stacking interactions, which occur between adjacent bases, contributing to the overall stability and functionality of the DNA molecule.
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Phosphodiester Linkages
Phosphodiester linkages are the covalent bonds that connect the phosphate group of one deoxyribonucleotide to the sugar of the next, forming the backbone of the DNA strand. These linkages are essential for maintaining the integrity of the DNA structure and allow for the formation of the long, stable chains necessary for genetic information storage and transmission.
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Formation & Breakdown of Nucleic Acids