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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is true about the structure of double-stranded DNA?
A
The strands are parallel and held together by hydrogen bonds.
B
The strands are antiparallel and held together by ionic bonds.
C
The strands are antiparallel and held together by hydrogen bonds.
D
The strands are parallel and held together by covalent bonds.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of DNA: DNA is composed of two strands that form a double helix.
Recognize the orientation of the strands: In double-stranded DNA, the strands are antiparallel, meaning one strand runs in the 5' to 3' direction and the other runs in the 3' to 5' direction.
Identify the type of bonds holding the strands together: The two strands of DNA are held together by hydrogen bonds between complementary nitrogenous bases.
Recall the base pairing rules: Adenine (A) pairs with Thymine (T) with two hydrogen bonds, and Cytosine (C) pairs with Guanine (G) with three hydrogen bonds.
Eliminate incorrect options: The strands are not parallel, and they are not held together by ionic or covalent bonds, which confirms the correct answer.