Question detail
What type of bond is responsible for the complementary base pairing in DNA?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Amino acids, proteins and DNA (A-level only)
Question
- A. Ionic bonds
- B. Covalent bonds
- C. Hydrogen bonds
- D. Metallic bonds
Answer
Hydrogen bonds
Explanation
Complementary base pairing in DNA is facilitated by hydrogen bonds between the nitrogenous bases, ensuring the stability of the DNA double helix structure.
Common mistake
Peptide Bond Drawing Error
Students often incorrectly draw the peptide bond by not showing the correct connection between the amine and carboxylic acid groups.
To correctly draw a peptide bond, remember that it forms between the carbon of the carboxylic acid group and the nitrogen of the amine group. The formula for the peptide bond is R1CO-NHR2, where R1 and R2 are the side chains of the amino acids. Ensure to illustrate the loss of a water molecule (H2O) during the condensation reaction.
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