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 organic derivatives of phosphoric acid, which contains multiple phosphate groups. When these acids ionize in solution, they release hydrogen ions (H+) and therefore have an acidic character.

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