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Multiple Choice
What type of bond holds the complementary strands of DNA together?
A
Covalent bonds
B
Disulfide bonds
C
Hydrogen bonds
D
Ionic bonds
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of DNA: DNA is composed of two complementary strands that form a double helix. These strands are held together by interactions between the nitrogenous bases of each strand.
Identify the types of bonds involved: The nitrogenous bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine) pair specifically (A with T, and C with G) through weak interactions called hydrogen bonds.
Clarify the role of hydrogen bonds: Hydrogen bonds are a type of non-covalent interaction that occurs between a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to an electronegative atom (like oxygen or nitrogen) and another electronegative atom. In DNA, these bonds form between the complementary base pairs.
Compare hydrogen bonds to other bond types: Covalent bonds are strong and form within the sugar-phosphate backbone of DNA, not between the strands. Disulfide bonds are specific to proteins, and ionic bonds involve charged particles, which are not relevant to DNA base pairing.
Conclude that hydrogen bonds are responsible for holding the complementary strands of DNA together, ensuring the stability of the double helix while allowing the strands to separate during processes like replication and transcription.