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Multiple Choice
Which type of bond is primarily responsible for holding the two strands of a DNA molecule together?
A
Hydrogen bonds
B
Covalent bonds
C
Disulfide bonds
D
Ionic bonds
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of DNA: DNA consists of two strands forming a double helix, where each strand is made up of nucleotides.
Identify the bonds within each strand: The nucleotides in a single strand are connected by covalent bonds called phosphodiester bonds, which link the sugar and phosphate groups.
Focus on the interaction between the two strands: The two strands are held together by bonds between the nitrogenous bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine) on opposite strands.
Recall the type of bond between complementary bases: Adenine pairs with thymine via two hydrogen bonds, and cytosine pairs with guanine via three hydrogen bonds.
Conclude that hydrogen bonds are primarily responsible for holding the two strands of DNA together, providing stability while allowing the strands to separate during processes like replication.