DNA & RNA Structure and Function Flashcards
Both stands of DNA are held together by what bond and why?
Weak hydrogen bonds because DNA is constantly being pulled apart to be copied
How are DNA and RNA similar?
both are made of nucleic acids
Which four nitrogen bases are partners in DNA?
Adenine - Thymine
Guanine - Cytosine
Which four nitrogen bases are partners in RNA?
Adenine - Uracil
Guanine - Cytosine
Are the two strands of DNA complementary to each other?
Yes
What is the function of DNA?
stores and transmits genetic information from one generation to the next, from one parent cell to daughter cells
Does DNA ever leave the nucleus
No
What is the function of RNA?
used by cells as a working copy of a gene to be used in the production of proteins
Can RNA leave the nucleus?
Yes
When does DNA happen?
before cell division so each new cell gets a full set of chromosomes
What are the steps to DNA replication?
- The DNA strands are “unzipped”
- The enzyme, DNA polymerase, attaches free nucleotides to build a new complementary strand along each old strand
- DNA polimerate proof reads DNA strands
What process is semi conservative replication
DNA replication (saving old strand and adding new strand)
Where does prokaryotic DNA replication occur?
on one spot on the chromosome and proceeded in both directions
Where does DNA replication occur in eukaryotic cells?
replication occurs in hundreds of places simultaneously in both directions to speed up the process