Textbook Question
What is the hyperchromic effect? How is it measured? What does Tₘ imply?
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7. DNA and Chromosome Structure
DNA as the Genetic Material
3:29 minutesProblem 31a
Textbook Question
A primitive eukaryote was discovered that displayed a unique nucleic acid as its genetic material. Analysis provided the following information:
The general X-ray diffraction pattern is similar to that of DNA, but with somewhat different dimensions and more irregularity.
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Analyze the X-ray diffraction pattern: Begin by understanding that X-ray diffraction provides information about the structure of nucleic acids. The similarity to DNA suggests that the genetic material has a helical structure, but the differences in dimensions and irregularity indicate that it may not be a standard double helix.
Consider the chemical composition: Investigate whether the nucleic acid contains the same components as DNA (deoxyribose sugar, phosphate backbone, and nitrogenous bases) or if it has variations, such as a different sugar (e.g., ribose in RNA) or unique bases.
Examine the helical structure: Determine if the nucleic acid is single-stranded, double-stranded, or has an alternative helical arrangement. This can be inferred from the irregularity in the X-ray diffraction pattern.
Evaluate the dimensions: Compare the dimensions of the discovered nucleic acid to those of DNA (e.g., DNA has a helical repeat of 3.4 nm and a diameter of 2 nm). The differences in dimensions may provide clues about the unique structure of this nucleic acid.
Hypothesize the biological significance: Based on the structural differences, hypothesize how this unique nucleic acid might function as genetic material in the primitive eukaryote. Consider whether the irregularity could affect replication, transcription, or stability.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Nucleic Acids
Nucleic acids, including DNA and RNA, are biopolymers essential for all known forms of life. They are composed of nucleotide monomers, which contain a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. DNA typically serves as the genetic blueprint, while RNA plays various roles in protein synthesis and gene regulation. Understanding the structure and function of nucleic acids is crucial for analyzing genetic material.
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X-ray Diffraction
X-ray diffraction is a technique used to study the atomic structure of crystalline materials, including biological macromolecules like DNA. When X-rays are directed at a crystal, they scatter in specific patterns that can be analyzed to reveal information about the arrangement of atoms. The diffraction pattern provides insights into the dimensions and regularity of the nucleic acid structure, which is vital for understanding its properties and functions.
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Eukaryotic Cells
Eukaryotic cells are complex cells characterized by the presence of a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. They can be unicellular or multicellular and include organisms such as plants, animals, and fungi. The discovery of a primitive eukaryote with unique genetic material suggests evolutionary significance and may provide insights into the diversity of life forms and their genetic mechanisms.
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