I really need to make sure this is correct for tommorow please help!
The significance of specific base pairing in DNA is that
A) it stabilizes the sugar molecule
B) it provides a method for making exact copies of DNA
C) it prevents errors in DNA replication
D)protein copies can be be made directly from the DNA
I'm pretty sure the answer is D, am I correct?
No, the correct answer is B) it provides a method for making exact copies of DNA. The specific base pairing in DNA, where adenine pairs with thymine and guanine pairs with cytosine, allows for accurate replication of the DNA molecule during cell division. This process ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical copy of the genetic information present in the parent cell.
The correct answer is B) it provides a method for making exact copies of DNA.
To understand why this is the correct answer, let's break down the significance of specific base pairing in DNA.
Specific base pairing refers to the complementary pairing of nucleotide bases in DNA. In DNA, there are four bases: adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G). Adenine always pairs with thymine through two hydrogen bonds, and cytosine always pairs with guanine through three hydrogen bonds. This specific base pairing is known as complementary base pairing.
Here's why complementary base pairing is significant in DNA:
1. Stabilizes DNA structure: Complementary base pairing helps stabilize the structure of the DNA molecule. The hydrogen bonds between the base pairs provide strength and hold the two DNA strands together, forming the characteristic double helix structure.
2. Allows for accurate DNA replication: During DNA replication, the two DNA strands separate, and each strand serves as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand. The complementary base pairing ensures that each new strand is an exact copy of the original strand. For example, if a template strand has the sequence AGCT, the new strand synthesized will have the complementary sequence TCGA. This ability to make exact copies of DNA is crucial for cell division and passing on genetic information to offspring.
3. Prevents errors in DNA replication: The specificity of base pairing also helps prevent errors during DNA replication. The enzymes involved in replication recognize the appropriate base pairing and incorporate the correct nucleotide in the growing new strand, following the complementary base pairing rules. This fidelity in DNA replication helps maintain the integrity of the genetic information.
On the other hand, option D) protein copies can be made directly from the DNA is incorrect. Protein synthesis involves a process called transcription, where the information in DNA is transcribed into a molecule called mRNA. The mRNA then leaves the nucleus and serves as a template for translation, during which proteins are synthesized. While DNA carries the genetic information necessary for protein production, proteins are not made directly from DNA molecules. Therefore, option D is not the correct answer in this context.
In summary, the correct answer is B) it provides a method for making exact copies of DNA. Complementary base pairing allows for accurate DNA replication, ensuring the fidelity and preservation of genetic information.