Are the strands of the backbone of DNA parallel?

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Prepare for the Arizona State University BIO181 General Biology I Exam 2. Study with flashcards, multiple choice questions, hints, and explanations to boost your understanding. Ensure success in your biology exam!

In the structure of DNA, the strands of the backbone are not parallel; they run in opposite directions, making them antiparallel. Each strand of DNA consists of a sugar-phosphate backbone and the nitrogenous bases attached to it. The orientation of the strands is crucial for the structure and function of DNA. One strand runs in the 5' to 3' direction while the other runs in the 3' to 5' direction. This antiparallel arrangement allows for the formation of the hydrogen bonds between complementary nitrogenous bases, facilitating the double helix structure essential for DNA replication and function. Thus, the assertion that the strands are parallel is incorrect.

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