Final answer:
DNA bases A pairs with T and C pairs with G to form units known as complementary base pairs, which are essential for DNA replication and function.
Step-by-step explanation:
The DNA bases A (adenine) pairs with T (thymine) and C (cytosine) with G (guanine) to form units called complementary base pairs.
Each nucleotide in DNA consists of a deoxyribose sugar, a phosphate group, and one of four nitrogenous bases. The base pairing in DNA is due to hydrogen bonding, with A and T forming two hydrogen bonds and C and G forming three, resulting in complementary base pairs known as a base pair. This specific pairing ensures genetic information is correctly passed during cell division, such as mitosis, thanks to the consistency of the pairing and the strength of the electrostatic forces involved.
These pairings are crucial for the replication and function of DNA, as they allow for the preservation of the sequence of DNA when cells divide and when genetic information is transmitted to offspring.
The DNA bases pair up with each other to form units called complementary base pairs. In DNA, adenine (A) always pairs up with thymine (T), and cytosine (C) always pairs up with guanine (G). This pairing is necessary for maintaining the order of bases in cell division and passing on genetic information.
For example, if one DNA strand reads ATGCCAGT, the other strand will be made up of the complementary bases: TACGGTCA.