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Multiple Choice
Which type of bond is formed between complementary bases to hold the two strands of DNA together?
A
Van der Waals forces
B
Hydrogen bond
C
Covalent bond
D
Ionic bond
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of DNA: DNA is composed of two strands that form a double helix. These strands are held together by interactions between complementary bases.
Identify the complementary base pairs: In DNA, adenine (A) pairs with thymine (T), and cytosine (C) pairs with guanine (G).
Recognize the type of bond involved: The bases on opposite strands are connected by hydrogen bonds, which are weak interactions that are crucial for the stability and flexibility of the DNA double helix.
Differentiate between bond types: Hydrogen bonds are different from covalent bonds (which involve sharing of electrons), ionic bonds (which involve transfer of electrons), and Van der Waals forces (which are weak attractions between molecules).
Conclude that the bond type holding the DNA strands together between complementary bases is the hydrogen bond, which allows for the specific pairing and easy separation during processes like DNA replication.