Question

Which order of atoms correctly describes the backbone of a DNA strand?

1) 3'C-O-P-O-5'C
2) 3'C-P-O-P-5'C
3) 5'C-O-P-O-3'H
4) 4'C-3'C-P-O-5'C

Answer 1

The correct order of atoms in the backbone of a DNA strand is 3'C-O-P-O-5'C.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct order of atoms that describes the backbone of a DNA strand is 3'C-O-P-O-5'C.

The sugar-phosphate groups, which make up the backbone of DNA, line up in a specific orientation. The 5' carbon of one nucleotide is connected to the phosphate group, which is then connected to the 3' carbon of the next nucleotide. This repeating pattern forms the backbone of the DNA strand.

It's important to note that DNA is composed of two single strands held together by hydrogen bonds between the bases, and the carbon atoms of the five-carbon sugar are numbered clockwise from the oxygen.