Nucleic Acids Flashcards, test questions and answers
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What is Nucleic Acids?
Nucleic acids are molecules found in all living organisms, and they are essential for life. They are composed of two main components: nitrogenous bases and a sugar-phosphate backbone. Nucleic acids have many functions in the body, including storing genetic information, producing proteins, and controlling cell metabolism. DNA is a type of nucleic acid which contains the genetic code for making proteins. It is made up of four different nitrogenous bases: adenine (A), thymine (T), guanine (G), and cytosine (C). These bases pair up to form the double helix structure known as the DNA molecule. The sequence of these base pairs determines the specific instructions for making proteins within an organism’s cells. In addition to carrying genetic information, DNA also acts as a template upon which RNA can be made from it as part of protein synthesis. RNA is another type of nucleic acid that is important in protein synthesis. It consists of three main components: ribose sugar, phosphate groups, and one or more nitrogenous bases. Unlike DNA, which has four different nitrogenous bases, RNA has five: adenine (A), uracil (U), guanine (G), cytosine (C) and sometimes inosine (I). RNA acts as an intermediary between DNA and proteins by producing messenger molecules that transfer code from DNA to ribosomes where they can be translated into functional proteins or enzymes necessary for cellular processes such as growth or metabolism. Nucleic acids are thus essential molecules for life on earth; without them our bodies would not be able to produce the necessary proteins and enzymes needed for basic functions like breathing or digesting food properly.