Multiple Choice
A covalent bond is likely to be polar when:
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11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Chemical Bonds
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
In the structure of DNA, the rungs are held together by __ bonds.
A
ionic
B
hydrogen
C
metallic
D
covalent
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the structure of DNA: DNA is composed of two strands forming a double helix, with the 'rungs' being pairs of nitrogenous bases connecting the strands.
Recall the types of chemical bonds: Ionic bonds involve transfer of electrons, metallic bonds occur between metal atoms, covalent bonds involve sharing of electrons, and hydrogen bonds are weak attractions between a hydrogen atom and an electronegative atom.
Identify the nature of the bonds holding the base pairs together: The nitrogenous bases on opposite strands pair through specific interactions that are not covalent or ionic but involve weaker attractions.
Recognize that these interactions are hydrogen bonds, which allow the base pairs to connect while still permitting the strands to separate during processes like replication.
Conclude that the rungs of the DNA ladder are held together by hydrogen bonds.
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