Double helix
Double Helix
The Double Helix (pronunciation: /ˈdʌb(ə)l ˈhiːlɪks/) is a term used in biology to describe the structure of DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid. The term was first used by James Watson and Francis Crick who are credited with discovering this structure in 1953.
Etymology
The term "double helix" comes from the Greek words "diploos" meaning double, and "helix" meaning spiral. This accurately describes the structure of DNA, which consists of two strands that twist around each other in a spiral shape.
Structure
The double helix structure of DNA consists of two strands of nucleotides that are twisted around each other. Each nucleotide is made up of a sugar molecule, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The two strands are held together by hydrogen bonds between the nitrogenous bases. The sequence of these bases determines the genetic information carried by the DNA.
Related Terms
- Nucleotide: The building block of DNA and RNA, consisting of a sugar molecule, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
- Hydrogen bond: A type of chemical bond that is formed between a hydrogen atom and a more electronegative atom.
- Nitrogenous base: A molecule that contains nitrogen and has the chemical properties of a base. In DNA, the nitrogenous bases are adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine.
- Phosphate group: A molecule that contains phosphorus and oxygen, and is a component of DNA and RNA.
- Sugar molecule: A type of carbohydrate that is a component of DNA and RNA.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Double helix
- Wikipedia's article - Double helix
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