MCAT Biochemistry Question 76: Answer and Explanation
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Question: 76
1. In a single strand of a nucleic acid, nucleotides are linked by:
- A. hydrogen bonds.
- B. phosphodiester bonds.
- C. ionic bonds.
- D. van der Waals forces.
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Nucleotides bond together to form polynucleotides. The 3′ hydroxyl group of one nucleotide’s sugar joins the 5′ hydroxyl group of the adjacent nucleotide’s sugar by a phosphodiester bond. Hydrogen bonding, choice (A), is important for holding complementary strands together, but does not play a role in the bonds formed between adjacent nucleotides on a single strand.