The directional nature of the DNA double helix is observed in the
A)locations of the hydrogen bonds.
B)locations of the numbered carbons in the sugars.
C)locations of the oxygen atom in the phosphate.
D)double helix when it is separated into single strands.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The DNA double helix has a directional nature due to the orientation of the sugars. The sugars have a 5' end and a 3' end, with the 5' end having a phosphate group and the 3' end having a hydroxyl group. The numbering of the carbons in the sugar molecule is based on this orientation, with the 5' carbon being numbered first and the 3' carbon being numbered last. This directionality is important for DNA replication, transcription, and translation.

The Directional Nature of the DNA Double Helix Is Observed