In DNA the phosphate groups are on the outside of the helix.Why does this stabilize the structure?
A) ionic interactions with the solvent
B) hydrogen bonding with itself
C) covalent binding to the solvent
D) It does not stabilize the structure.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The negatively charged phosphate groups interact with positively charged ions in the surrounding solvent, which stabilizes the structure of the DNA molecule by neutralizing the negative charge on the phosphate groups.

In DNA the Phosphate Groups Are on the Outside of the Helix.Why