Table of contents

1. Introduction to Genetics51m
2. Mendel's Laws of Inheritance3h 37m
3. Extensions to Mendelian Inheritance2h 41m
4. Genetic Mapping and Linkage2h 28m
5. Genetics of Bacteria and Viruses1h 21m
6. Chromosomal Variation1h 48m
7. DNA and Chromosome Structure56m
8. DNA Replication1h 10m
9. Mitosis and Meiosis1h 34m
10. Transcription1h 0m
11. Translation58m
12. Gene Regulation in Prokaryotes1h 19m
13. Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes44m
14. Genetic Control of Development44m
15. Genomes and Genomics1h 50m
16. Transposable Elements47m
17. Mutation, Repair, and Recombination1h 6m
18. Molecular Genetic Tools19m
- Genetic Cloning
  9m
- Methods for Analyzing DNA
  9m
19. Cancer Genetics29m
- Overview of Cancer
  21m
- Cancer Mutations
  7m
20. Quantitative Genetics1h 26m
21. Population Genetics50m
- Hardy Weinberg
  19m
- Allelic Frequency Changes
  31m
22. Evolutionary Genetics29m

1. Introduction to Genetics

Fundamentals of Genetics

Genetics

1. Introduction to Genetics

Fundamentals of Genetics

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0:38 minutes

Problem 10j

Textbook Question

Define each of the following terms:
Complementary base pair

Verified step by step guidance

Understand that complementary base pairing refers to the specific pairing of nitrogenous bases in DNA and RNA, which is essential for the structure and function of nucleic acids.

Recall that in DNA, adenine (A) pairs with thymine (T) through two hydrogen bonds, and cytosine (C) pairs with guanine (G) through three hydrogen bonds.

Note that in RNA, adenine (A) pairs with uracil (U) instead of thymine (T), while cytosine (C) still pairs with guanine (G).

Explain that complementary base pairing ensures accurate replication of DNA and proper transcription of RNA, maintaining genetic fidelity.

Summarize that complementary base pairs are a fundamental concept in molecular genetics, enabling the double-helix structure of DNA and the transfer of genetic information.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Complementary Base Pairing

Complementary base pairing refers to the specific pairing of nitrogenous bases in DNA and RNA. In DNA, adenine (A) pairs with thymine (T), and cytosine (C) pairs with guanine (G). This pairing is crucial for the structure of the double helix and ensures accurate replication and transcription of genetic information.

DNA Structure

DNA is structured as a double helix, consisting of two strands that run in opposite directions. The backbone of each strand is made of sugar and phosphate groups, while the rungs are formed by complementary base pairs. This structure is essential for the stability of genetic material and the processes of replication and gene expression.

Base Pairing Rules

Base pairing rules dictate how nucleotides pair in nucleic acids. In DNA, A pairs with T and C pairs with G, while in RNA, A pairs with U (uracil) instead of T. These rules are fundamental for maintaining the integrity of genetic information during processes like DNA replication and RNA transcription.

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