The precursor of each new nucleotide in a strand of DNA is a

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The precursor of each new nucleotide in a strand of DNA is a deoxynucleoside 5'-triphosphate, which is abbreviated dNTP. The 5' carbon of the deoxyribose sugar of the incoming nucleotide forms a phosphodiester bond with the 3' carbon of the existing nucleotide in the growing strand, resulting in the release of pyrophosphate (PPi). The dNTPs contain three phosphate groups (hence the triphosphate suffix) which provide energy for the formation of this bond during DNA synthesis. Choice C, deoxynucleoside 5'-triphosphate, is the correct option because it specifies the correct nucleotide precursor and its correct naming convention.

The Precursor of Each New Nucleotide in a Strand of DNA