biology ib hl

• how does the structure of the nucleic acids allow hereditary information to be stored?

  -double helix structure of DNA - storage of genetic information

  -sequence of nucleotides - codes genetic information

  -complementary base pairing enables replication

  -RNA as a messenger - carries the genetic code from the nucleus to ribosomes, where it is translated into proteins

  -chromosome structure - allows large amounts of genetic information to be stored in the nucleus and ensures its proper distribution
• base pairing

  • ensures accurate copying of genetic information
  • DNA = A & T and C & G
  • RNA = A & U and C & G
• hydrogen bonds in DNA

  -holds the two strands together but weak enough to allow strand to separate during replication and transportation
• each set of three nucleotides collect a codon, specifies a particular amino acid
• how does the structure of DNA facilitate accurate replication?

  DNA polymerase carries out replication with a high degree of accuracy, aided by its proof reading ability
• define polymerases:- enzymes that catalyze the synthesis of DNA or RNA polymer with the help of nucleotides
• state the two primary functions of nucleic acid

  • pass information between generations
  • codes for protein production
• states the two types of nucleic acids used in cells

  DNA and RNA
• outline the meaning and implication of DNA being the genetic material of all living organisms

  --> DNA is a molecule that carries genetic instructions in all living organisms

  --> implications:

  • inheritance
  • genetic variations
  • evolution and forensics
• state why RNA viruses do not falsify the claim that all living things use DNA as the genetic material

  --> viruses are not made of cells so they are not considered living