What term describes the property that base pairing is specific and complementary?

Study for the DNA Structure, Replication, Transcription and Translation Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question offers hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly and excel in your exam!

Multiple Choice

What term describes the property that base pairing is specific and complementary?

Explanation:
Base pairing is specific because each base can only pair with its specific partner, forming stable hydrogen bonds that fit like puzzle pieces. In DNA, A pairs with T (or U in RNA) and C pairs with G, so the pairing is described as complementary. This term captures the idea that the bases are matched in a way that their shapes and bonding patterns align to create a faithful, copyable template. The other terms refer to what the pairs are (base pairs), the overall structure (double helix), or a change in DNA (mutation), rather than the rule that guides which bases pair with each other.

Base pairing is specific because each base can only pair with its specific partner, forming stable hydrogen bonds that fit like puzzle pieces. In DNA, A pairs with T (or U in RNA) and C pairs with G, so the pairing is described as complementary. This term captures the idea that the bases are matched in a way that their shapes and bonding patterns align to create a faithful, copyable template. The other terms refer to what the pairs are (base pairs), the overall structure (double helix), or a change in DNA (mutation), rather than the rule that guides which bases pair with each other.

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