What is the structure of DNA?

DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a polymer made up of two strands of nucleotides. Each nucleotide is made up of a phosphate group, pentose sugar and nitrogenous base (of which there are 4 types). These nucleotides are joined up together to form one strand and the other strand is made up through complementary base pairing. These two strands are then twisted together to form a double helix structure. The sequence of bases within the DNA codes for amino acids, which will eventually be translated to form specific proteins required within the body.

Answered by Shaurya M. Biology tutor

1677 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is Darwin’s theory of Evolution by Natural Selection? What is the evidence?


Why does an action potential travel faster in a myelinated neurone compared to a non-myelinated neurone?


How is DNA replicated, and why is this method of replication important?


How do you get from an a base like adenine to an enzyme/protein?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences