6.1: DNA and RNA Structure

Question 1

What is the primary source of heritable information?

Answer 1

DNA (in chromosomes) and in some cases RNA.

Question 2

How is genetic information transmitted from one generation to the next?

Answer 2

Through chromosomes that contain the DNA of the parents.

Question 3

What is DNA? How is it stored?

Answer 3

As nitrogen base sequences with base pairings purines with pyrimidines.

Question 4

How is prokaryotic DNA shaped?

Answer 4

• circular chromosomes

- smaller

Question 5

How is eukaryotic DNA shaped?

Answer 5

• linear chromosomes

- larger

Question 6

How is the amount of DNA different between a prokaryote and a eukaryote?

Answer 6

There is more DNA in a eukaryote

Question 7

What is a plasmid?

Answer 7

• extra chromosomal double stranded and circular DNA molecules.
• cytosol for prokaryotes
• nucleus for eukaryotes

Question 8

Identify two functions of plasmids.

Answer 8

They can replicate proteins and clone parts of DNA

Question 9

What is the structure of a pyrimidine? Which of the nitrogenous bases are purines?

Answer 9

Guanine and Adenine

• double ring structure
• cut pie

Question 10

Why does a purine always pair with a pyrimidine?

Answer 10

So that there is a total of 3 rings.