Multiple Choice
In the DNA double helix, what type of interaction holds complementary bases together across the two strands?
42
views
7. DNA and Chromosome Structure
DNA Structure
Multiple Choice
In the DNA double helix, what type of bond primarily holds the two antiparallel strands together?
A
Ionic bonds between the sugar-phosphate backbones
B
Phosphodiester bonds between nucleotides on opposite strands
C
Peptide bonds between nitrogenous bases
D
Hydrogen bonds between complementary nitrogenous bases
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the structure of the DNA double helix: it consists of two antiparallel strands made up of nucleotides.
Recognize that each nucleotide contains a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
Recall that the sugar-phosphate backbone of each strand is held together by phosphodiester bonds, which are covalent bonds within the same strand, not between strands.
Identify that the two strands are held together by interactions between nitrogenous bases from opposite strands.
Know that these interactions are hydrogen bonds formed specifically between complementary nitrogenous bases (adenine with thymine, and guanine with cytosine), which stabilize the double helix.
Related Videos
Related Practice
