Question detail
Explain how complementary base pairing occurs in DNA and the role of hydrogen bonds in this process.
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Amino acids, proteins and DNA (A-level only)
Question
Explain how complementary base pairing occurs in DNA and the role of hydrogen bonds in this process.
Answer
Complementary base pairing in DNA occurs when adenine pairs with thymine and guanine pairs with cytosine. Each pair is held together by hydrogen bonds, with adenine forming two hydrogen bonds with thymine and guanine forming three hydrogen bonds with cytosine, ensuring the stability and specificity of the DNA structure.
Explanation
This answer demonstrates an understanding of the specific base pairs and the significance of hydrogen bonds in maintaining the integrity of the DNA double helix. It tests the student's ability to connect molecular interactions with structural biology.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Base Pairing
Students often confuse the specific hydrogen bonds formed between complementary bases in DNA, such as pairing adenine with thymine and cytosine with guanine.
To clarify, remember that adenine (A) forms two hydrogen bonds with thymine (T), while cytosine (C) forms three hydrogen bonds with guanine (G). This can be summarized as: A-T (2 H-bonds) and C-G (3 H-bonds). Therefore, when explaining complementary base pairing, ensure to specify the number of hydrogen bonds formed between each pair.
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