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Multiple Choice
Which type of weak bond is primarily responsible for holding the two strands of DNA together in the double helix structure?
A
Covalent bonds
B
Hydrogen bonds
C
Disulfide bonds
D
Ionic bonds
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of DNA: DNA is composed of two strands that form a double helix structure. These strands are held together by interactions between the nitrogenous bases of the nucleotides.
Identify the types of bonds: Covalent bonds are strong bonds that hold atoms together within a molecule, such as the sugar-phosphate backbone of DNA. Disulfide bonds are specific to proteins and involve sulfur atoms. Ionic bonds occur between charged particles, but they are not the primary bonds in DNA's double helix.
Focus on hydrogen bonds: Hydrogen bonds are weak bonds formed between a hydrogen atom and an electronegative atom, such as oxygen or nitrogen. In DNA, hydrogen bonds occur between complementary nitrogenous bases (adenine pairs with thymine, and cytosine pairs with guanine).
Examine the role of hydrogen bonds in DNA: Hydrogen bonds provide the necessary stability to hold the two strands of DNA together while allowing them to separate during processes like replication and transcription.
Conclude that hydrogen bonds are the primary weak bonds responsible for holding the two strands of DNA together in the double helix structure.