What determines the primary structure of a DNA molecule?a. stem-and-loop configurationb. complementary base pairingc. deoxyribonucleotide sequenced. hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the components of a DNA molecule, which include a phosphate group, a deoxyribose sugar, and a nitrogenous base.
2. Understand that the sequence of deoxyribonucleotides (which are composed of a phosphate group, a deoxyribose sugar, and a nitrogenous base) in a DNA strand forms the primary structure of the DNA.
3. Recognize that complementary base pairing (adenine with thymine, and cytosine with guanine) contributes to the double helix structure but is not directly responsible for the primary sequence of the DNA.
4. Acknowledge that stem-and-loop configurations and hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding are involved in the secondary and tertiary structures of DNA, not the primary structure.
5. Conclude that the primary structure of a DNA molecule is determined by the sequence of deoxyribonucleotides along its length.

Key Concepts

Primary Structure of DNA

The primary structure of DNA refers to the linear sequence of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA. Each nucleotide consists of a deoxyribose sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. This sequence determines the genetic information carried by the DNA molecule and is crucial for processes such as replication and transcription.

Deoxyribonucleotide Sequence

The deoxyribonucleotide sequence specifically denotes the order of the four types of nucleotides (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine) in a DNA strand. This sequence is fundamental to the primary structure, as it encodes the genetic instructions for the development and functioning of living organisms. Variations in this sequence lead to genetic diversity.

Complementary Base Pairing

Complementary base pairing is a key feature of DNA structure, where specific nitrogenous bases pair with each other (adenine with thymine, and cytosine with guanine) through hydrogen bonds. While this concept is crucial for the secondary structure of DNA, it is the primary sequence of nucleotides that ultimately determines the overall structure and function of the DNA molecule.