DNA is Made of Repeating Units Called Nucleotides
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is the genetic material of all living organisms. It is a long, double-stranded molecule that contains the instructions for building and maintaining an organism. DNA is made up of repeating units called nucleotides.
Each nucleotide is composed of three parts:
- A sugar molecule
- A nitrogenous base
- A phosphate group
The sugar molecule in DNA is deoxyribose. The nitrogenous bases in DNA are adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G). The phosphate group is attached to the sugar molecule and provides a negative charge that helps to hold the two strands of DNA together.
The nucleotides in DNA are linked together by covalent bonds between the phosphate group of one nucleotide and the sugar molecule of the next nucleotide. This creates a long, chain-like molecule.
The sequence of nucleotides in DNA is unique to each organism. This sequence of nucleotides is called the genetic code. The genetic code contains the instructions for building proteins, which are the building blocks of life.
Questions Related to DNA Nucleotides
- What are the four different types of nucleotides in DNA?
The four different types of nucleotides in DNA are adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G).
- How are the nucleotides in DNA linked together?
The nucleotides in DNA are linked together by covalent bonds between the phosphate group of one nucleotide and the sugar molecule of the next nucleotide.
- What is the function of the nitrogenous bases in DNA?
The nitrogenous bases in DNA are responsible for the genetic code. The sequence of nucleotides in DNA determines the sequence of amino acids in proteins.
- How is the structure of DNA related to its function?
The double-stranded structure of DNA is important for its function. The two strands of DNA are held together by the complementary base pairing of the nitrogenous bases. This complementary base pairing allows DNA to replicate itself accurately.
Additional Information
DNA is a very stable molecule. It can last for millions of years without breaking down. This stability is important because it allows DNA to be passed down from generation to generation.
DNA is also very versatile. It can be used to store information, to regulate gene expression, and to repair damaged DNA.
DNA is a complex and fascinating molecule that is essential for life.
