Why are nucleotides (and their polymers) called nucleic acids when they contain nitrogenous bases?
A) There are more acids on the molecule than bases.
B) Phosphoric acid groups (becoming phosphates) are much stronger than nitrogen acts as a base.
C) Acids ending in " -ic" are the ionized versions of those molecules ending in " -ate."
D) Nitrogenous base is really a misnomer.
E) Acids always win out over a base.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Nucleotides contain phosphoric acid groups that, when ionized, become phosphates. These phosphoric acid groups are much stronger acids than the nitrogenous components act as bases, which is why nucleotides and their polymers (nucleic acids) are considered acids.

Why Are Nucleotides (And Their Polymers) Called Nucleic Acids When