Final Answer:
The total number of protons and neutrons in a DNA molecule 46 respectively. Thus the correct option is (b) Protons: 46, Neutrons: 46.
Step-by-step explanation:
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is composed of nucleotides containing phosphate groups, sugar molecules, and nitrogenous bases. The core of these nucleotides contains the phosphate group attached to a sugar molecule and a nitrogenous base. In DNA, the nitrogenous bases adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G) pair up in specific combinations. Each nucleotide consists of a sugar molecule (deoxyribose), a phosphate group, and one of these four nitrogenous bases.
The structure of DNA involves two chains of nucleotides twisted around each other in a double helix. Within the nucleus of a cell, DNA strands form chromosomes, carrying genetic information.
The number of protons in an atomic nucleus defines the element. In the case of DNA, the primary elements are hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, carbon, and phosphorus. The atomic number of an element indicates the number of protons. The number of protons in an element is constant and is equal to its atomic number. Therefore, if the question is asking for the total number of protons and neutrons in a DNA molecule, the correct answer would correspond to the sum of protons and neutrons in the elements that make up DNA.
In option (b), where both protons and neutrons are 46, it represents a balanced nucleotide composition in the DNA molecule, suggesting a hypothetical but plausible scenario given the usual isotopic variations. This equilibrium of protons and neutrons corresponds to a stable and well-balanced DNA molecule, considering the elemental composition of the atoms forming it.
Thus the correct option is (b) Protons: 46, Neutrons: 46.