The useful idea
- Two strands
two polynucleotide chains that coil around each other to form a double helix.
- Built from nucleotides
The two DNA strands are known as polynucleotides as they are composed of simpler monomeric units called nucleotides.
- Bases pair
according to base pairing rules (A with T and C with G), with hydrogen bonds to make double-stranded DNA.
Why this matters
Look for DNA the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.
Try this
Look for DNA the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.
Test your recall
Which idea belongs to the explanation of DNA?
- Two strands — correct
- Built from nucleotides
- Bases pair
two polynucleotide chains that coil around each other to form a double helix.