Examine the molecular model of DNA shown here. This molecule is found in the nucleus of eukaryotes but can direct the synthesis of proteins in the cytoplasm. Which component of the molecule is most directly related to the ability of the DNA to direct protein synthesis?

Question

Examine the molecular model of DNA shown here. This molecule is found in the nucleus of eukaryotes but can direct the synthesis of proteins in the cytoplasm. Which component of the molecule is most directly related to the ability of the DNA to direct protein synthesis?

Responses
A the order of the nitrogenous bases on the interior of the moleculethe order of the nitrogenous bases on the interior of the molecule
B the hydrogen bonds holding the base pairs in place within the moleculethe hydrogen bonds holding the base pairs in place within the molecule
C the number of carbons found on the sugar in the backbone of the moleculethe number of carbons found on the sugar in the backbone of the molecule
D the negative charge on the phosphate groups on the exterior of the molecule

Answer 1

The component of the molecule that is most directly related to the ability of the DNA to direct protein synthesis is the order of the nitrogenous bases on the interior of the molecule (option A). The sequence of bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine) in DNA determines the sequence of amino acids in a protein, which ultimately determines its structure and function.