DNA Flashcards
Why are proteins important?
Without proteins, we wouldn’t be alive and we can’t make proteins without the blueprint of DNA
What do the DNA instructions code for?
To makes all the proteins in our bodies
Where’s DNA found in eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells?
In eukaryotic cells, the nucleus. In prokaryotic cells, the cytoplasm.
What are the three parts of a nucleotide?
Sugar
Phosphate group
Nitrogen bases
What is the structure of DNA?
Backbone, steps, or double helix
What are the two groups that out nitrogen bases belong to? Describe these groups.
Pyrimidines. They are the classes of nitrogen bases because of their chemical structure. Pyramiding only pairs with a purine and vice versa. Adenine and Guanine are 2 ring structures which makes them purines. Thymine and Cytosine are 1 ring structures which make them pyrimidines.
Give a brief description of each scientists contribution to DNA.
Rosalind Franklin - discovered x-Ray of DNA structure
Maurice Wilkins - stole Rosalind’s picture
James Watson and Francis Crick - built DNA model based on x-Ray
What does DNA store and transmit?
Our physical characteristics
What does DNA control?
The production of proteins
What are the building blocks of an organism?
DNA
Why can’t DNA be a triple helix?
The nitrogenous bases have to be on the inside. Having a triple helix would result in the nitrogenous bases being outside
Describe Chargaff’s rule
The amount of a = t in a given species and the amount of g = c
What are histones?
DNA is that is tightly coiled around
What are nucleosomes?
DNA and protein together
Which direction is DNA replicated in?
5’ to 3’
