Base stacking, or the "stacking interaction," is most likely the result of which noncovalent interaction
A)charge-dipole interaction
B)dipole-dipole interaction
C)dipole-induced dipole interaction
D)van der Waals interaction
E)none of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Base stacking is the result of van der Waals interaction between the stacked bases. Van der Waals interaction includes London dispersion forces and dipole-induced dipole interactions. However, since London dispersion forces are the dominant force between uncharged and nonpolar molecules such as DNA bases, dipole-induced dipole interactions are not significant in base stacking. Therefore, the best choice for the noncovalent interaction responsible for base stacking is van der Waals interaction.

Base Stacking, or the "Stacking Interaction," Is Most Likely the Result