Which option correctly describes Watson–Crick base pairing in double-stranded DNA?

• A. A pairs with G, and C pairs with T.
• B. A pairs with C, and G pairs with T.
• C. A pairs with T, and G pairs with C.
• D. A pairs with U, and G pairs with C.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that Watson–Crick base pairing refers to the specific hydrogen bonding between nitrogenous bases in double-stranded DNA.
2. Identify the four bases in DNA: Adenine (A), Thymine (T), Guanine (G), and Cytosine (C).
3. Understand that Adenine (A) pairs specifically with Thymine (T) through two hydrogen bonds, and Guanine (G) pairs with Cytosine (C) through three hydrogen bonds.
4. Note that Uracil (U) is found in RNA, not DNA, so it does not participate in Watson–Crick base pairing in DNA.
5. Use this knowledge to evaluate the options and confirm that the correct description is: A pairs with T, and G pairs with C.