If chromosomal DNA were single stranded,which of the following would be most reduced compared to a double stranded molecule?
A) informational complexity (e.g.the diversity of proteins encoded)
B) informational fidelity (e.g.the consistency of sequence between generations)
C) informational density (e.g.the number of proteins encoded)
D) ability to replicate information (e.g.the ability to transfer genes to progeny)
E) structural diversity (e.g.the number of forms into which the molecule could fold)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Informational fidelity, or the consistency of sequence between generations, would be most reduced if chromosomal DNA were single-stranded. Double-stranded DNA allows for complementary base pairing, which is crucial for error-checking and repair mechanisms that maintain sequence accuracy across generations. Single-stranded DNA lacks this complementary strand, making it more prone to mutations and errors during replication.

If Chromosomal DNA Were Single Stranded,which of the Following Would