Question

Which two statements describe how the supercolling of a chromosome

affects DNA in a cell?
A. Without supercoiling, DNA molecules would not fit inside agell.
OB. Without supercolling, DNA molecules would not be double
OC. Supercolling allows genes to occupy random locations along a
domm
00. Supercolling protects long, delicate strands of DNA

Answer 1

B. Without supercoiling, DNA molecules would not be double-stranded.

C. Supercoiling allows genes to occupy random locations along a chromosome.

Step-by-step explanation:

B. Supercoiling refers to the twisting and coiling of the DNA molecule upon itself. This coiling is essential for compactly packaging the long DNA molecules inside a cell's nucleus. Without supercoiling, the DNA would not be able to form the characteristic double-stranded structure that is essential for its stability and proper functioning.

C. The supercoiling of a chromosome allows genes to occupy random locations along its length. This spatial arrangement allows for the regulation of gene expression and facilitates the accessibility of genes to the cellular machinery involved in DNA replication, transcription, and other molecular processes.

The other two statements (A and D) are not accurate descriptions of the effects of supercoiling on DNA. Statement A is incorrect because the packaging of DNA inside a cell is primarily achieved through the process of chromatin condensation, which involves both DNA and proteins. Supercoiling plays a role in this process but is not the sole determinant. Statement D is incorrect because supercoiling primarily affects the compactness and organization of the DNA molecule and does not serve as a protective mechanism for delicate strands of DNA.

Answer 2

The two statements that describe how the supercoiling of a chromosome affects DNA in a cell are:
- Supercolling allows genes to occupy random locations along a chromosome.
- Supercolling protects long, delicate strands of DNA.