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What are nucleic acids? molecules that carry information in cells and are made up of smaller molecules called nucleotides molecules that combine water and nucleotides to make DNA atoms that combine to form cells acids that break food down in the stomach

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Final answer:

Nucleic acids are molecules made up of nucleotides that direct cellular activities. The two main types of nucleic acids are DNA and RNA. DNA carries the genetic blueprint and is passed on from parents to offspring, while RNA is involved in protein synthesis.

Step-by-step explanation:

Nucleic acids are molecules made up of nucleotides that direct cellular activities such as cell division and protein synthesis. Each nucleotide is made up of a pentose sugar, a nitrogenous base, and a phosphate group. There are two types of nucleic acids: DNA and RNA. DNA carries the genetic blueprint of the cell and is passed on from parents to offspring (in the form of chromosomes). It has a double-helical structure with the two strands running in opposite directions, connected by hydrogen bonds, and complementary to each other. RNA is single-stranded and is made of a pentose sugar (ribose), a nitrogenous base, and a phosphate group. RNA is involved in protein synthesis and its regulation.

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