DNA structure Flashcards
1
Q
what does the 5’ end of DNA refer to and 3’ end
A
phosphate group, hydroxyl group
2
Q
why is DNA described as being antiparallel
A
the nitrogenous bases are complementary, while running in opposite directions
3
Q
what connects the two strands of DNA together (type of bond between what component
A
hydrogen bonds
4
Q
what are the base pairing rules
A
adenine & thymine/uracil
cytosine & guanine
5
Q
why does DNA form a helical structure in water
A
the nitrogenic bases are hydrophobic, so the helical structure is a means of keeping the bases away from water
