What structural feature of DNA is attributed to the fact that the two DNA strands are antiparallel?
A) DNA is a left-handed helix.
B) DNA has the phosphate groups on the interior.
C) DNA is a right-handed helix.
D) DNA forms a pleated sheet.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The antiparallel arrangement of the two DNA strands is due to the fact that the sugar-phosphate backbone of each strand runs in opposite directions. This is a result of the specific orientation of the sugar molecules. The 5' carbon of one sugar is linked to the 3' carbon of the adjacent sugar in one strand, while it is linked to the 5' carbon of the adjacent sugar in the other strand. This results in a helix with right-handed coiling.

What Structural Feature of DNA Is Attributed to the Fact