DNA - Structure, Function, and Replication

The Structure of DNA

The Structure of DNADeoxyribonucleic acid is contained within the cells of every living organism. The DNA specifies the structure and function of all living things, and serves as the primary unit of heredity. What makes up this complex molecule? How is DNA structured? In this interactivity, explore the structure of DNA. Click the player button to begin.

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Digital Repository IconModel of DNAYou learned that DNA is constructed from phosphates, sugars, and bases in a double helix. View The Structure of DNA from eMediaVASM to take a more in-depth peek at a DNA molecule. While you are watching this short video clip, think about the following questions:

    • What forms the backbone and core of DNA?
    • What does base stacking accomplish?
    • What nucleotides are always paired together?
    • What types of bonds connect the nucleotides?

 

DNA Replication

DNA ReplicationBefore a cell can reproduce, it must replicate, or make a copy, of its DNA. DNA replication occurs in the cytoplasm in prokaryotes and in the nucleus in eukaryotes. Regardless of where DNA replication occurs, the process is almost exactly the same. In a human’s cells, DNA replication happens very quickly. Every second, fifty nucleotides are added to a DNA template. In this interactivity, learn about the process of DNA replication. Click the player button to begin.

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Digital Repository IconThe process of DNA replication is very simple. The DNA unwinds, the bases pair, and then DNA joins. Watch How DNA Replicates from eMediaVASM to view an illustration of this process. While you are watching the video clip, think about how the replicated DNA is complimentary to the parent.

 

DNA - Structure, Function, and Replication Review

ReviewNow that you investigated the structure, function, and replication of DNA, review your knowledge. In this non-graded interactivity, complete the crossword puzzle by entering the correct answers, one letter per square (both across and down), from the given clues into the blank puzzle spaces. Click the player button to begin.