Which statement BEST describes why a nucleic acid is an "acid"?
A) Nucleic acids contain many carboxylic acid functional groups.
B) Nucleic acids are unusually reactive with acids.
C) Nucleic acids contain many hydroxyl groups.
D) Nucleic acids contain nitrogen.
E) Nucleic acids are organic derivatives of phosphoric acid.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Nucleic acids are considered acids because they are organic derivatives of phosphoric acid, which is due to the presence of phosphate groups in their structure. These phosphate groups can release hydrogen ions (H+) in solution, giving nucleic acids their acidic properties.

Which Statement BEST Describes Why a Nucleic Acid Is an "Acid