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Multiple Choice
What type of bond connects base pairs in DNA?
A
Covalent bonds
B
Metallic bonds
C
Ionic bonds
D
Hydrogen bonds
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of DNA: DNA is composed of two strands forming a double helix. Each strand is made up of nucleotides, which consist of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
Identify the role of base pairs: The nitrogenous bases on each strand pair with complementary bases on the opposite strand. The base pairs are adenine (A) with thymine (T), and cytosine (C) with guanine (G).
Explore the nature of hydrogen bonds: Hydrogen bonds are weak interactions that occur between a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to an electronegative atom (like nitrogen or oxygen) and another electronegative atom. They are crucial for the stability of the DNA double helix.
Recognize the significance of hydrogen bonds in DNA: In the DNA double helix, hydrogen bonds form between the complementary nitrogenous bases (A-T and C-G), holding the two strands together.
Differentiate hydrogen bonds from other types of bonds: Covalent bonds involve sharing of electrons between atoms, metallic bonds involve a sea of electrons shared among metal atoms, and ionic bonds involve transfer of electrons from one atom to another. Hydrogen bonds are distinct as they are based on electrostatic attraction between partial charges.