Which part of the DNA strand is the most polar, and what is the significance of that polarity?
A) The nitrogen base is most polar and so it is on the outside of the DNA, in contact with water.
B) The nitrogen base is most polar and so it is on the inside of the DNA.
C) The sugar phosphate backbone is most polar and so it is on the outside of the DNA, in contact with water.
D) The sugar phosphate backbone is most polar and so it is on the inside of the DNA.
E) No part of DNA is any more polar than any other part.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sugar phosphate backbone is most polar and therefore faces outward towards the watery environment. The polar nature of the sugar and phosphate molecules makes them hydrophilic and allows them to interact with water. The nitrogen bases are nonpolar and are found on the inside of the double helix, away from the water.

Which Part of the DNA Strand Is the Most Polar