Topic 6.1 - DNA and RNA Structure Flashcards
how is genetic information stored?
stored as a sequence of bases in DNA/RNA
how is genetic information transferred?
transferred from generation to generation through DNA/RNA
how is genetic information passed from parent -> daughter cell?
DNA is packed into chromosomes before genetic information is passed from parent -> daughter cell
how do viruses encode genetic information?
viruses use RNA molecules to encode genetic information
what is DNA?
the primary source of hereditary material
how are DNA and RNA structurally similar (3)?
> both are polymers containing nucleotides
both are chain-like molecules
both follow base pairing rules
how is specific nucleotide base pairing conserved?
through evolution
what rule do DNA and RNA both follow?
both follow conserved base pairing rules in which pyrimidines only pair with specific purines
how do pyrimidines and purines differ?
> pyrimidines have a single ring structure (ex. U,T, C)
purines have a double ring structure (ex. A, G)
how do prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes differ?
> prokaryotic organisms have circular chromosomes
eukaryotic organisms have multiple, linear chromosomes
prokaryotic genomes are typically smaller
prokaryotes & eukaryotes contain plasmids
what are plasmids?
small extra-chromosomal, double stranded, circular DNA molecules
where are plasmids found?
found in the cytosol (prokaryotes) and the nucleus (eukaryotes)
