Nucleic Acids Flashcards
What are nucleotides?
the monomers that make up polynucleotides (DNA + RNA)
What is DNA?
stands for deoxyribonucleic acid
it is double stranded - has a double helix
is a long polymer / polynucleotide
it has a simple structure - many scientists didnt believe it carried the genetic code
What does DNA do?
it carries the genetic information which codes for ptoeins
What is the sugar in DNA?
deoxyribose
What is DNA made up of?
phosphate
pentose sugar
nitrogen containing base ( so either A T C OR G)
What is RNA?
stands for ribonucleic acid
it is single stranded
short polynucleotides
What does RNA do?
it transfers genetic code from DNA (in nucleus) to ribosomes in the cytoplasm
ribosomes are formed from RNA and proteins
What is RNA made up of?
phosphate
pentose sugar (ribose)
nitrogen containing base -> A U C OR G
What is the bond that joins DNA and RNA?
hydrogen bonds
What is phosphodiester bond?
when two nucleotides join by condensation
What is a always paired with?
T
What is C always paired with?
G
