Describe the structure of DNA

Nucleotides make up DNA. Nucleotides themselves are made up of a phosphate, sugar and base.

They bases are: Adenine (A), Thymine (T), Cytosine (C), Guanosine (G). 

A is bonded to T. C is bonded to G. The bases are bonded by phosphodiester bonds. 

The remaining phosphate and sugar make up the backbone of the DNA, forming two strands on either side of the bases.

These strands then wind around eachother to form the 'double helix' structure. 

ML
Answered by Miranda L. Biology tutor

2671 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain how the structure of an enzyme allows for it to act as a biological catalyst


Describe the effects of nitrogen and phosohorus fertiliser leaching into a lake


What is the difference between genotype and phenotype?


The genetic code is described as being degenerate. What does this mean? and why ?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning