What evidence did Watson and Crick have at their disposal in 1953? What was their approach in arriving at the structure of DNA?

Does the design of the Hershey–Chase experiment distinguish between DNA and RNA as the molecule serving as the genetic material? Why or why not?

What observations are consistent with the conclusion that DNA serves as the genetic material in eukaryotes? List and discuss them.

What are the exceptions to the general rule that DNA is the genetic material in all organisms? What evidence supports these exceptions?

Describe the various characteristics of the Watson–Crick double-helix model for DNA.

How is the absorption of ultraviolet light by DNA and RNA important in the analysis of nucleic acids?

What is the physical state of DNA after it is heated and denatured?

What is the hyperchromic effect? How is it measured? What does Tₘ imply?

Why is Tₘ related to base composition?