In DNA, adenine always pairs with which base?

Study for the Biochemistry Module 6 Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions; each question includes hints and explanations. Gear up to ace your test!

Multiple Choice

In DNA, adenine always pairs with which base?

Explanation:
DNA base pairing relies on complementary hydrogen bonding and the need to keep the double helix width constant. Adenine pairs with thymine in DNA because they form two hydrogen bonds and fit together as a purine–pyrimidine pair. This pairing maintains the proper geometry of the helix and reflects Chargaff’s rules that A pairs with T. Uracil is the RNA analog of thymine and appears in RNA instead of thymine, so adenine pairs with uracil in RNA rather than in DNA. Cytosine pairs with guanine via three hydrogen bonds, which is a different, but equally specific, pairing.

DNA base pairing relies on complementary hydrogen bonding and the need to keep the double helix width constant. Adenine pairs with thymine in DNA because they form two hydrogen bonds and fit together as a purine–pyrimidine pair. This pairing maintains the proper geometry of the helix and reflects Chargaff’s rules that A pairs with T. Uracil is the RNA analog of thymine and appears in RNA instead of thymine, so adenine pairs with uracil in RNA rather than in DNA. Cytosine pairs with guanine via three hydrogen bonds, which is a different, but equally specific, pairing.

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