DNA and RNA

What is the definition of DNA?

DNA stands for Deoxyribonucleic Acid, which is the hereditary molecule that codes for genetic information and enables the transmission of inherited traits.

What structure does DNA have?

DNA exists as a double-helix, resembling a twisted ladder.

What composes the backbone of DNA?

The backbone of DNA is made up of alternating phosphate and deoxyribose sugar.

What are the building blocks of nucleic acids called?

The building blocks of nucleic acids are called nucleotides.

What three sub-units make up a nucleotide?

A nucleotide consists of a phosphate group, a pentose sugar, and a nitrogenous base.

Which nitrogenous bases are purines?

The purines are Adenine (A) and Guanine (G).

Which nitrogenous bases are pyrimidines?

The pyrimidines are Thymine (T), Cytosine (C), and in RNA, Uracil (U) replaces T.

What is significant about the orientation of DNA strands?

The two strands of DNA run antiparallel, with one strand oriented 5' to 3' and the other 3' to 5'.

How are the strands of DNA held together?

The strands of DNA are held together by hydrogen bonds between complementary bases.

What base pairs with Adenine in DNA?

In DNA, Adenine pairs with Thymine.

What base pairs with Cytosine in DNA?

In DNA, Cytosine pairs with Guanine.

What are the main functions of mRNA, tRNA, and rRNA?

mRNA conveys instructions from DNA to ribosomes, tRNA delivers specific amino acids during translation, and rRNA is a structural and catalytic component of ribosomes.

What are the key differences between DNA and RNA regarding structure?

DNA is typically double-stranded, contains deoxyribose sugar, and has Thymine (T); RNA is usually single-stranded, contains ribose sugar, and has Uracil (U) instead of Thymine.

What is a triplet in the context of DNA?

A triplet refers to a group of three bases on the DNA template.

What is a codon in mRNA?

A codon in mRNA is a group of three bases that encodes a specific amino acid.

What is an anticodon in tRNA?

An anticodon in tRNA is a complementary three-base region that pairs with the codon during translation.

Why is complementary base pairing important?

Complementary base pairing ensures the fidelity of replication, transcription, and translation.

What role does the extra OH group on ribose play in RNA?

The extra OH group on ribose makes RNA more chemically reactive and suited for transient roles.

What implication does understanding DNA/RNA structures have on biotechnology?

Understanding DNA/RNA structure is foundational for genetic engineering, gene therapy, forensics, and mRNA vaccine design.