Structure of Nucleic Acids: The Building Blocks of Life
What are the building blocks of nucleic acids called?
a. Amino acids
b. Nucleotides
c. Monosaccharides
Answer:
b. Nucleotides
Nucleotides are the building blocks of nucleic acids. They play a vital role in storing and transmitting genetic information in living organisms. Each nucleotide consists of three main components: a nitrogenous base, a sugar molecule, and a phosphate group.
The nitrogenous base can be one of four types: adenine, thymine, cytosine, or guanine. These bases pair up in specific combinations to form the rungs of the DNA ladder.
The sugar molecule in DNA is deoxyribose, while in RNA it is ribose. This sugar provides the backbone of the nucleic acid chain, connecting the bases together.
The phosphate group links the sugar molecules together, forming the structural framework of the nucleotide. This backbone supports the nitrogenous bases and helps maintain the overall stability of the DNA or RNA molecule.
Understanding the structure of nucleic acids is essential for grasping the fundamental principles of genetics and molecular biology. By unraveling the secrets of DNA and RNA, scientists have unlocked a treasure trove of knowledge about life itself.