Question 1

The molecule shown in the image is a nucleotide. Which of the following statements best describes its structure and function in biological systems?

Accepted Answer

It is composed of a phosphate group, a ribose sugar, and an adenine base, and is a building block of RNA.

Question 2

Which chemical bond forms between the phosphate group of one nucleotide and the sugar of another nucleotide during nucleic acid polymerization?

Accepted Answer

Phosphodiester bond

Question 3

Given the structure in the image, which end of a nucleic acid chain would this nucleotide be added to during RNA synthesis?

Accepted Answer

It would be added to the 3' end of the growing RNA strand.

Question 4

Which of the following best explains why the nucleotide shown is a component of RNA and not DNA?

Accepted Answer

The sugar in the nucleotide is ribose, which contains a hydroxyl group at the 2' carbon.

Question 5

If a mutation caused the removal of the hydroxyl group at the 2' carbon of the sugar in this nucleotide, what would be the most likely result?

Accepted Answer

The nucleotide would become a component of DNA instead of RNA.

Unit 1: Science Practices & The Chemistry of Life – AP Biology Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions