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Multiple Choice
Which components make up the backbone (sides) of the DNA molecule?
A
Deoxyribose sugars and nitrogenous bases
B
Ribose sugars and phosphate groups
C
Alternating deoxyribose sugars and phosphate groups
D
Nitrogenous bases and phosphate groups
Verified step by step guidance
1
Recall the structure of the DNA molecule, which is often described as a double helix with two strands running in opposite directions.
Understand that the backbone (or sides) of the DNA molecule is formed by repeating units that provide structural support.
Identify the components involved in the backbone: the sugar and phosphate groups alternate along each strand.
Note that in DNA, the sugar is deoxyribose, not ribose (which is found in RNA).
Recognize that the nitrogenous bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, guanine) are attached to the sugar and form the 'rungs' of the ladder, not the backbone.