Question detail
What is formed during the condensation reaction that creates the sugar-phosphate backbone of 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. Water and a nucleotide
- B. Water and a peptide bond
- C. Amino acids and water
- D. Nucleotides and hydrogen bonds
Answer
Water and a nucleotide
Explanation
During the condensation reaction, a water molecule is released when nucleotides join together to form the sugar-phosphate backbone of DNA.
Common mistake
Confusing the Backbone Components
Students often confuse the components of the sugar-phosphate backbone in DNA, thinking that the sugar and phosphate groups are interchangeable.
To clarify, remember that the sugar (deoxyribose) and phosphate groups are distinct components. The sugar is linked to the phosphate group through a condensation reaction, forming a covalent bond. This can be summarized as: sugar + phosphate → sugar-phosphate backbone. Ensure you can identify each component and their roles in the structure.
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