Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Why are strands of DNA said to be complementary to one another?
A
Because the strands are held together by covalent bonds between the bases.
B
Because each base on one strand pairs specifically with a corresponding base on the opposite strand (A with T, and G with C).
C
Because DNA strands are always synthesized in the same direction.
D
Because both strands have identical sequences of nucleotides.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of DNA: DNA is a double-stranded molecule composed of nucleotides. Each nucleotide consists of a sugar (deoxyribose), a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base (adenine, thymine, guanine, or cytosine).
Learn about base pairing rules: The nitrogenous bases on one strand of DNA pair specifically with complementary bases on the opposite strand. Adenine (A) pairs with thymine (T), and guanine (G) pairs with cytosine (C). This pairing is due to hydrogen bonding between the bases.
Recognize the concept of complementarity: The sequence of bases on one strand determines the sequence on the opposite strand. For example, if one strand has the sequence ATGC, the complementary strand will have the sequence TACG.
Understand why the strands are complementary: The specific pairing ensures that the two strands are complementary rather than identical. This complementarity is crucial for DNA replication and maintaining genetic fidelity.
Clarify the incorrect options: DNA strands are not held together by covalent bonds between bases (they are held by hydrogen bonds), they are not synthesized in the same direction (they are antiparallel), and they do not have identical sequences (they are complementary).