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Multiple Choice
Which type of bonding is found in the backbone of nucleic acids?
A
Peptide bonds
B
Phosphodiester bonds
C
Disulfide bonds
D
Glycosidic bonds
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of nucleic acids: Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are composed of nucleotide monomers. Each nucleotide consists of a sugar molecule, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
Focus on the backbone of nucleic acids: The backbone is formed by the sugar and phosphate groups of the nucleotides, connected in a chain-like structure.
Identify the type of bond connecting the sugar and phosphate groups: The bond that links the 5' phosphate group of one nucleotide to the 3' hydroxyl group of the sugar in another nucleotide is called a phosphodiester bond.
Compare phosphodiester bonds with other types of bonds: Peptide bonds are found in proteins, disulfide bonds stabilize protein structures, and glycosidic bonds connect sugar molecules in carbohydrates. None of these are involved in the nucleic acid backbone.
Conclude that phosphodiester bonds are the correct answer: These bonds are essential for the structural integrity of DNA and RNA, forming the backbone that supports the sequence of nitrogenous bases.