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Multiple Choice
In DNA, what base does adenine pair with?
A
Thymine
B
Guanine
C
Uracil
D
Cytosine
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of DNA: DNA is composed of two strands forming a double helix, with each strand consisting of nucleotides. Each nucleotide includes a phosphate group, a sugar molecule (deoxyribose), and a nitrogenous base.
Identify the nitrogenous bases in DNA: There are four types of nitrogenous bases in DNA - adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G).
Learn about base pairing rules: In DNA, base pairing occurs between the nitrogenous bases of the two strands. Adenine (A) pairs with thymine (T), and cytosine (C) pairs with guanine (G). This is known as complementary base pairing.
Consider the options given: The problem provides four options for adenine's pairing partner - thymine, guanine, uracil, and cytosine. Recall that uracil is found in RNA, not DNA, where it pairs with adenine.
Apply the base pairing rule: Based on the complementary base pairing rule, adenine (A) pairs with thymine (T) in DNA. Therefore, the correct answer is thymine.