In nucleic acids, what term refers to the nitrogen-containing component that pairs with its complement?

Prepare for the GMAS Biology Test with multiple choice questions, detailed explanations, and innovative study techniques to excel. Boost your confidence and get ready for success!

Multiple Choice

In nucleic acids, what term refers to the nitrogen-containing component that pairs with its complement?

Explanation:
In nucleic acids, the part that actually pairs with its partner on the opposite strand is the nitrogen-containing base. Each nucleotide has a base that forms specific hydrogen-bonding pairs: A pairs with T (or U in RNA), and C pairs with G. The sugar part and the phosphate backbone stay along the strand and don’t pair with bases across the helix, while amino acids are components of proteins, not nucleic acids. So the term for the nitrogen-containing component that pairs with its complement is the nitrogen base.

In nucleic acids, the part that actually pairs with its partner on the opposite strand is the nitrogen-containing base. Each nucleotide has a base that forms specific hydrogen-bonding pairs: A pairs with T (or U in RNA), and C pairs with G. The sugar part and the phosphate backbone stay along the strand and don’t pair with bases across the helix, while amino acids are components of proteins, not nucleic acids. So the term for the nitrogen-containing component that pairs with its complement is the nitrogen base.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy