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Multiple Choice
Which component of DNA forms the backbone of the molecule?
A
Deoxyribose sugar
B
Phosphate group
C
Hydrogen bonds
D
Nitrogenous base
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of DNA: DNA is composed of nucleotides, each consisting of a phosphate group, a deoxyribose sugar, and a nitrogenous base.
Identify the backbone of DNA: The backbone of the DNA molecule is formed by alternating phosphate groups and deoxyribose sugars.
Recognize the role of the phosphate group: The phosphate group links the 3' carbon atom of one sugar molecule to the 5' carbon atom of the next sugar molecule, forming a phosphodiester bond.
Differentiate between the backbone and the bases: The nitrogenous bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine) are not part of the backbone; they are attached to the deoxyribose sugar and form the rungs of the DNA ladder through hydrogen bonding.
Conclude the component forming the backbone: Based on the structure, the phosphate group, along with the deoxyribose sugar, forms the backbone of the DNA molecule.