MCAT Biochemistry Question 85: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 85

10. How does prokaryotic DNA differ from eukaryotic DNA?

I. Prokaryotic DNA lacks nucleosomes.

II. Eukaryotic DNA has telomeres.

III. Prokaryotic DNA is replicated by a different DNA polymerase.

IV. Eukaryotic DNA is circular when unbound by centromeres.

  • A. I only
  • B. IV only
  • C. II and III only
  • D. I, II, and III only

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

Prokaryotic DNA is circular and lacks histone proteins, and thus does not form nucleosomes. Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic DNA are replicated by DNA polymerases, although these polymerases differ in identity. Eukaryotic DNA is organized into chromatin, which can condense to form linear chromosomes; only prokaryotes have circular chromosomes. Only eukaryotic DNA has telomeres.

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