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Multiple Choice
Which key feature of DNA is best illustrated by Watson and Crick's ball-and-stick model?
A
The arrangement of ribose sugars in a linear chain
B
The double helix structure with complementary base pairing
C
The process of DNA replication by RNA polymerase
D
The presence of uracil in the DNA backbone
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the significance of Watson and Crick's ball-and-stick model: It was pivotal in revealing the structural organization of DNA, specifically the double helix arrangement.
Recall the key features of the double helix structure: DNA consists of two strands twisted around each other, forming a helical shape. These strands are held together by hydrogen bonds between complementary base pairs.
Identify complementary base pairing: Adenine (A) pairs with Thymine (T) via two hydrogen bonds, and Cytosine (C) pairs with Guanine (G) via three hydrogen bonds. This pairing ensures accurate replication and genetic information transfer.
Eliminate incorrect options: The arrangement of ribose sugars in a linear chain refers to the sugar-phosphate backbone, not the double helix. DNA replication by RNA polymerase is incorrect because RNA polymerase is involved in transcription, not replication. The presence of uracil in the DNA backbone is incorrect because uracil is found in RNA, not DNA.
Conclude that the correct feature illustrated by Watson and Crick's model is the double helix structure with complementary base pairing, as it explains the mechanism of genetic information storage and replication.