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Multiple Choice
What is the primary structural difference between a nucleotide and a nucleoside?
A
A nucleotide contains a phosphate group, while a nucleoside does not.
B
A nucleoside contains a phosphate group, while a nucleotide does not.
C
A nucleotide contains an additional sugar molecule compared to a nucleoside.
D
A nucleoside contains an additional nitrogenous base compared to a nucleotide.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the basic components of nucleotides and nucleosides. A nucleotide is composed of three parts: a nitrogenous base, a sugar molecule (usually ribose or deoxyribose), and one or more phosphate groups.
A nucleoside, on the other hand, consists of only two parts: a nitrogenous base and a sugar molecule. It does not include any phosphate groups.
To identify the primary structural difference, focus on the presence or absence of the phosphate group. This is the key distinguishing feature between nucleotides and nucleosides.
Consider the options provided in the problem. The correct distinction is that a nucleotide contains a phosphate group, while a nucleoside does not.
Review the other options to ensure understanding: A nucleoside does not contain a phosphate group, a nucleotide does not have an additional sugar molecule compared to a nucleoside, and a nucleoside does not contain an additional nitrogenous base compared to a nucleotide.