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Multiple Choice
Which components form the backbone of the DNA molecule?
A
Nitrogenous bases only
B
Fatty acids and glycerol
C
Alternating sugar and phosphate groups
D
Amino acids
Verified step by step guidance
1
Recall the basic structure of a DNA molecule, which consists of a long chain of nucleotides.
Understand that each nucleotide is composed of three parts: a nitrogenous base, a sugar molecule (deoxyribose), and a phosphate group.
Identify that the backbone of the DNA strand is formed by the sugar and phosphate groups linked together through phosphodiester bonds.
Recognize that the nitrogenous bases extend from this sugar-phosphate backbone and pair with complementary bases on the opposite strand.
Conclude that the correct components forming the backbone of DNA are the alternating sugar and phosphate groups, not the nitrogenous bases or other molecules like fatty acids or amino acids.