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Which nitrogen bases pair together in DNA, and how many hydrogen bonds do each pair form?
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Adenine pairs with thymine via two hydrogen bonds, and guanine pairs with cytosine via three hydrogen bonds.
How does the structure of DNA contribute to its ability to store vast amounts of information?
The variety in base sequences enables vast information storage, and its compact structure allows it to be efficiently stored in cellular spaces.
During transcription, which RNA base pairs with adenine in DNA?
Uracil pairs with adenine in RNA.
What role does uracil play in RNA, and how does it differ from DNA?
Uracil (U) in RNA replaces thymine (T) found in DNA.
Why are viruses not considered living organisms despite containing nucleic acids?
Viruses use RNA to carry genetic information but lack the cellular machinery and metabolic processes found in living organisms.
What is the primary function of nucleic acids in living organisms?
To carry genetic information essential for life.
What type of chemical reaction is involved in forming the strands of RNA and DNA?
Condensation reactions join nucleotides together to form RNA and DNA strands.
What are the four essential macromolecules in living systems?
Proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids.
What is the primary structural difference between DNA and RNA?
DNA is composed of two strands, while RNA is single-stranded.
Which molecule is unique in carrying genetic information for living organisms?
DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid).
How does the universality of the genetic code provide evidence of a common ancestor?
The universal genetic code across organisms suggests that all life shares a common evolutionary origin.
Describe the basic components of a nucleotide.
A pentose sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogen base.
Explain the orientation of DNA strands.
DNA strands are parallel but oriented in opposite directions (antiparallel).
Describe the role of RNA in protein synthesis.
RNA is transcribed from DNA and plays a crucial role in translating the genetic code into proteins during synthesis.
What major structural difference exists between the pentose sugars in DNA and RNA?
DNA contains deoxyribose, which lacks an oxygen atom on the second carbon, while RNA contains ribose, which has a hydroxyl group.
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