DNA Flashcards
1
Q
In what was is DNA stored in eukaryotic cells?
A
- contain linear DNA molecules that exist as chromosomes each made up of one long molecule of DNA and its associated proteins
- chromosomes are found in the nucleus
2
Q
How can DNA be stored in eukaryotic cells?
A
-the DNA molecule is really long so it has to be wound up to fit in the nucleus
- its wound around proteins called histones → histones also support DNA
- the DNA is then coiled up very tightly to make a compact chromosome
- this complex on DNA wrapped around a histone is called a nucleosome
3
Q
What organelles have their own DNA?
A
mitochondria and chloroplasts - it is circular and shorter than DNA in the nucleus that’s not associated with histones
4
Q
How is DNA stored in prokaryotic cells?
A
- carry DNA as chromosomes
- DNA molecules are shorter and circular
- DNA is not wound around histones
- it condenses to fit in the cell by supercoiling
