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Multiple Choice
Which sugar is found in the backbone of DNA molecules?
A
Glucose
B
Fructose
C
Deoxyribose
D
Ribose
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of DNA: DNA is composed of two strands forming a double helix. Each strand consists of a sugar-phosphate backbone and nitrogenous bases.
Identify the sugar component in the DNA backbone: The sugar in the backbone of DNA is a pentose sugar, which means it has five carbon atoms.
Differentiate between ribose and deoxyribose: Ribose is the sugar found in RNA, while deoxyribose is the sugar found in DNA. Deoxyribose lacks one oxygen atom compared to ribose, hence the prefix 'deoxy'.
Recognize the role of deoxyribose in DNA: Deoxyribose is crucial for the stability and structure of DNA, allowing it to form the double helix and store genetic information.
Conclude that deoxyribose is the correct sugar in DNA: Based on the structure and function of DNA, deoxyribose is the sugar found in its backbone, distinguishing it from RNA, which contains ribose.