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Multiple Choice
Which type of bond connects the sugar molecules in a single strand of DNA?
A
Hydrogen bond
B
Phosphodiester bond
C
Glycosidic bond
D
Peptide bond
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of DNA: DNA is composed of nucleotides, each consisting of a sugar (deoxyribose), a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The sugar molecules are connected to each other via bonds in the backbone of the DNA strand.
Identify the type of bond that connects the sugar molecules: The sugar molecules in DNA are linked through phosphate groups, forming a sugar-phosphate backbone. This bond is known as a phosphodiester bond.
Clarify the nature of a phosphodiester bond: A phosphodiester bond is formed between the 3' hydroxyl group (-OH) of one sugar molecule and the 5' phosphate group (-PO₄) of the adjacent sugar molecule. This bond is covalent and provides structural stability to the DNA strand.
Differentiate from other bond types: Hydrogen bonds connect complementary nitrogenous bases between two DNA strands, glycosidic bonds link the sugar to the nitrogenous base within a nucleotide, and peptide bonds are found in proteins, not DNA.
Conclude that the correct answer is phosphodiester bond, as it specifically connects sugar molecules in the backbone of a single strand of DNA.