QQuestionBiochemistry
QuestionBiochemistry
What chemicals make up the sides or backbone of the DNA molecule?
10 months agoReport content
Answer
Full Solution Locked
Sign in to view the complete step-by-step solution and unlock all study resources.
Step 1:I'll solve this problem step by step, focusing on the chemical composition of DNA's backbone and sides.
Step 2:: DNA Backbone Composition
The DNA backbone is primarily composed of alternating sugar and phosphate molecules. Specifically: - The sugar is deoxyribose (a pentose sugar) - The phosphate groups connect these sugar molecules
Step 3:: Sugar Details
\text{Sugar: 2-Deoxyribose}
- A 5 -carbon sugar (pentose) - Contains a hydroxyl group (-OH) on the 3' carbon - Lacks an oxygen atom at the 2' position (hence "deoxy")
Step 4:: Phosphate Group Characteristics
\text{Phosphate: } \text{PO}_{4}^{3-}
- Negatively charged inorganic molecule - Connects sugar molecules through phosphodiester bonds - Provides structural stability to the DNA molecule
Step 5:: Complete Backbone Structure
- Connecting in a $$\text{sugar} - \text{phosphate} - \text{sugar}$$ pattern
The backbone alternates between: - Deoxyribose sugar - Phosphate group
Final Answer
The DNA molecule's sides/backbone are composed of alternating deoxyribose sugar and phosphate groups, creating a negatively charged, structurally stable molecular framework.
Need Help with Homework?
Stuck on a difficult problem? We've got you covered:
- Post your question or upload an image
- Get instant step-by-step solutions
- Learn from our AI and community of students