HURRY
Even before the structure of DNA was known, studies indicated that the genetic material must have the following properties:
-Be able to store information
-Be constantly replicated between generations
-Be able to allow changes, and thus evolution, to occur
Explain how the structure of DNA gives it these three properties. Write one or two sentences per property.
The structure of DNA gives it the ability to store information through the arrangement of its chemical components. The four different nucleotide bases, paired together in a specific sequence, form a code that can encode information.
DNA is constantly replicated between generations due to its double helix structure. During DNA replication, the two strands of the double helix separate, and each serves as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand, resulting in two identical copies of the original DNA molecule.
DNA's structure allows changes to occur, enabling evolution. Mutations can happen when there are errors in the replication process or when external factors cause alterations in the DNA sequence. These changes, when passed on to subsequent generations, contribute to genetic diversity and the potential for evolution.