Question

Explain how DNA encodes information.

Short answer

DNA encodes information through the sequence of four types of nitrogen bases (A, T, C, G) along its strands. Each sequence of three bases corresponds to one amino acid in protein synthesis. This genetic code is used to create proteins and passed on to offspring during reproduction.

Step-by-step solution

Identify DNA Components

DNA, deoxyribonucleic acid, is made up of four types of nitrogen bases: Adenine (A), Thymine (T), Guanine (G), and Cytosine (C). These bases pair up with each other, A with T and C with G, to form base pairs which are the main information carrying units.

Describe the Structure

The DNA molecule is a double helix structure having two strands wound around each other. Each strand is a chain of nucleotides, where each nucleotide comprises a sugar, a phosphate, and a nitrogen base. The order of these base pairs along the DNA strand forms the genetic code.

Explain Genetic Code

The genetic code lies in the specific sequence of the bases along the DNA strand. Each sequence of three bases, also called a codon, corresponds to a specific amino acid during protein synthesis.

Discuss Protein Synthesis

The DNA's encoded information is used to create proteins in a two-step process: transcription and translation. During transcription, the DNA's code is transferred to messenger RNA (mRNA), which then carries this information to the ribosome where translation occurs, turning the genetic code into a sequence of amino acids to form a protein.

Elaborate on Inheritance

The sequence of base pairs in DNA not only dictates the synthesis of proteins, but also passes on the genetic traits from parents to offspring. The information in DNA is copied and passed on during cell division.