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Why the distance between two polynucleotide chains in DNA remains almost constant?
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Why the distance between two polynucleotide chains in DNA remains almo...
Explanation of the Constant Distance between Two Polynucleotide Chains in DNA


Introduction


DNA is a double-stranded molecule that carries genetic information in all living organisms. It is composed of two polynucleotide chains that run in opposite directions and are held together by hydrogen bonds between their nitrogenous bases. Despite the flexibility of the DNA molecule, the distance between the two polynucleotide chains remains almost constant.

Factors that Maintain the Constant Distance


There are several factors that contribute to the constant distance between the two polynucleotide chains in DNA:


  • Hydrogen Bonds: The hydrogen bonds between the nitrogenous bases of the two polynucleotide chains play a critical role in maintaining the constant distance. These bonds are relatively weak but numerous, which creates a stable and rigid structure.


  • Base Pairing: The nitrogenous bases of the two polynucleotide chains pair up in a specific way (adenine with thymine and guanine with cytosine), which ensures that the two chains are held together in a complementary fashion. This stable pairing also contributes to the constant distance between the two chains.


  • Phosphodiester Bonds: The phosphodiester bonds that join the nucleotides of each polynucleotide chain also contribute to the constant distance between the two chains. These bonds create a backbone that runs along the length of each chain and helps to maintain its overall structure.


  • Twisting: The double helix structure of DNA is twisted, which creates a coiled structure that helps to maintain the constant distance between the two polynucleotide chains. This twisting also helps to prevent the DNA molecule from becoming tangled or knotted.



Conclusion


In conclusion, the constant distance between the two polynucleotide chains in DNA is maintained by a combination of factors, including hydrogen bonding, base pairing, phosphodiester bonding, and twisting. These factors work together to create a stable and rigid structure that is necessary for the proper functioning of DNA in carrying genetic information.
Community Answer
Why the distance between two polynucleotide chains in DNA remains almo...
Always there is bonding bw purine and pyrimidine and purine is heterocyclic double ring structure and pitimidine is single ringed structure so distance always remain consatant
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Why the distance between two polynucleotide chains in DNA remains almost constant?
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