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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of DNA?
A
DNA is composed of nucleotides.
B
DNA strands are antiparallel.
C
DNA is a double helix structure.
D
DNA contains the sugar ribose.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the basic structure of DNA: DNA is a nucleic acid composed of long chains of nucleotides. Each nucleotide consists of a phosphate group, a sugar molecule, and a nitrogenous base.
Identify the sugar component in DNA: The sugar in DNA is deoxyribose, which is a five-carbon sugar. This is a key characteristic that differentiates DNA from RNA.
Recognize the structural features of DNA: DNA is known for its double helix structure, where two strands of nucleotides coil around each other.
Understand the concept of antiparallel strands: In the DNA double helix, the two strands run in opposite directions, which is referred to as being antiparallel.
Compare with RNA: RNA contains the sugar ribose instead of deoxyribose. This is a distinguishing feature between DNA and RNA, making the statement 'DNA contains the sugar ribose' incorrect for DNA.