Nucleic Acids

These flashcards cover key concepts about nucleic acids, their structures, functions, and importance in genetics.

Nucleic Acids

Biomacromolecules such as DNA and RNA that store and transfer genetic information.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid, a double helix that serves as the genetic material storing information for the development and function of living things.

RNA

Ribonucleic acid, a single helix that plays roles in coding, decoding, regulation, and expression of genes.

Nucleotide

The building block of nucleic acids, composed of a nitrogen base, a pentose sugar, and a phosphate group.

Replication

The process of copying DNA to ensure genetic information is passed on during cell division.

Purines

Nitrogen bases with a double-ring structure; include adenine (A) and guanine (G).

Pyrimidines

Nitrogen bases with a single-ring structure; include cytosine (C), thymine (T), and uracil (U).

Phosphodiester Bond

The bond formed between the phosphate group of one nucleotide and the sugar of another nucleotide, creating the sugar-phosphate backbone of DNA and RNA.

Helix

A spiral structure formed by the coiling of two strands of DNA around each other.

Base Pairing

The specific hydrogen bonding between nitrogen bases in DNA, where adenine pairs with thymine and guanine pairs with cytosine.

H bonds

Hydrogen bonds that hold the two strands of DNA together, crucial for the stability of the DNA molecule.