How do nucleaotides join to form nucleic acids? Name the bond formed.
http://www.sparknotes.com/biology/molecular/structureofnucleicacids/section1.html
Nucleotides join together to form nucleic acids through a process called polymerization. Specifically, nucleotides form bonds to create a sugar-phosphate backbone, while the nitrogenous bases project out from the backbone. The bond formed between the nucleotides is known as a phosphodiester bond.
To better understand the process, you can follow the steps below:
1. Start with the individual nucleotides: Nucleotides are made up of three components - a sugar molecule, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. In DNA, the sugar is deoxyribose, while in RNA, it is ribose. The phosphate group remains the same in both DNA and RNA.
2. Align the nucleotides: Place the nucleotides in a linear arrangement, making sure that the sugar of one nucleotide is linked to the phosphate group of the next nucleotide.
3. Form the phosphodiester bond: The phosphate group of one nucleotide reacts with the hydroxyl group (-OH) on the sugar moiety of the adjacent nucleotide. This reaction results in the release of a water molecule and the formation of a phosphodiester bond between the sugar and phosphate groups. This bond links the nucleotides together and creates a sugar-phosphate backbone.
4. Repeat the process: Continue adding nucleotides in the same manner, extending the sugar-phosphate backbone. Each new nucleotide will bind to the previous one through the formation of a phosphodiester bond.
By repeating this process, nucleotides progressively join together to generate a long chain known as a nucleic acid, such as DNA or RNA. The phosphodiester bonds between the nucleotides provide stability and help maintain the overall structure of the nucleic acid molecule.