Describe the structure of DNA

DNA is made up of two anti-parallel strands running in opposite directions. It is made up of individual monomers called nucleotides which in turn contain: a sugar (deoxyribose), a base (A, G, C or T), and phosphate group. The sugars and the phosphates bond together resulting in a phosphodiester bond giving rise to the sugar phosphate backbone down one side of the molecule. The four bases are adenine, cytosine, guanine and thymine and form hydrogen-bonds in pairs, A to T and C to G. This is how the two strands stick together. The sequence of bases is what determines the genetic code for the cell.

JH
Answered by Jamie H. Biology tutor

2405 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How is an action potential formed when the neurone is stimulated?


Why do some mutations to DNA structure not result in a change of the produced polypeptide?


Explain how an action potential is transmitted from one neurone to another at a synapse.


Describe and explain how a nerve impulse is transmitted across a cholinergic synapse.


We're here to help

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

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences