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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the basic structure of a DNA molecule?
A
A double helix composed of two antiparallel strands held together by complementary base pairing
B
A linear chain of amino acids linked by peptide bonds
C
A single-stranded molecule with uracil as one of its bases
D
A triple helix formed by three polynucleotide chains
Verified step by step guidance
1
Recall that DNA stands for deoxyribonucleic acid, which is the molecule that carries genetic information in most living organisms.
Understand that the basic structure of DNA was discovered by Watson and Crick, who described it as a double helix.
Recognize that DNA consists of two strands running in opposite directions, which is referred to as antiparallel orientation.
Know that the two strands are held together by complementary base pairing, where adenine pairs with thymine and cytosine pairs with guanine.
Compare the given options to these characteristics to identify that the correct description is a double helix composed of two antiparallel strands held together by complementary base pairing.