Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Nucleic Acids

Anatomy & Physiology

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Nucleic Acids

Previous problemNext problem

0:41 minutes

Problem 9

Textbook Question

DRAW IT Copy the polynucleotide strand in Figure 5.23a and label the bases G, T, C, and T, starting from the 5′ end. Assuming this is a DNA polynucleotide, now draw the complementary strand, using the same symbols for phosphates (circles), sugars (pentagons), and bases. Label the bases. Draw arrows showing the 5'→3' direction of each strand. Use the arrows to make sure the second strand is antiparallel to the first. Hint: After you draw the first strand vertically, turn the paper upside down; it is easier to draw the second strand from the 5′ toward the 3′ direction as you go from top to bottom.

Verified step by step guidance

Start by drawing the first polynucleotide strand vertically, with the 5' end at the top and the 3' end at the bottom.

Label the bases on this strand as G, T, C, and T, starting from the 5' end.

Draw the complementary strand next to the first strand. Remember that in DNA, adenine (A) pairs with thymine (T), and cytosine (C) pairs with guanine (G).

Ensure that the complementary strand is antiparallel to the first strand. This means the 5' end of the complementary strand should be at the bottom, and the 3' end should be at the top.

Draw arrows to indicate the 5' to 3' direction for each strand, ensuring the strands are antiparallel.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above

Video duration:

41s

Play a video:

Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

DNA Structure

DNA is composed of two polynucleotide strands that form a double helix. Each strand consists of a sugar-phosphate backbone and nitrogenous bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine) that pair specifically (A with T and C with G). Understanding this structure is crucial for accurately drawing and labeling DNA strands.

Antiparallel Orientation

The two strands of DNA run in opposite directions, known as antiparallel orientation. One strand runs from the 5' to 3' direction, while the complementary strand runs from 3' to 5'. This orientation is essential for the proper pairing of bases and for the functioning of DNA during processes like replication and transcription.

Base Pairing Rules

Base pairing rules dictate that adenine pairs with thymine (A-T) and cytosine pairs with guanine (C-G) in DNA. These rules are fundamental for constructing the complementary strand accurately. When drawing the complementary strand, it is important to ensure that the correct bases are paired according to these rules to maintain the integrity of the genetic information.