* Adenine (A) always pairs with Thymine (T)
* Guanine (G) always pairs with Cytosine (C)
This pairing is based on the hydrogen bonds that form between the nitrogenous bases. Adenine and thymine form two hydrogen bonds, while guanine and cytosine form three hydrogen bonds.
This specific pairing is crucial for the following reasons:
* DNA replication: When DNA replicates, the two strands separate and each strand serves as a template for a new strand. The base pairing rule ensures that the new strands are identical to the original strands.
* DNA structure: The complementary base pairing allows DNA to form a double helix structure, with the two strands held together by hydrogen bonds.
* Genetic code: The sequence of base pairs in DNA determines the sequence of amino acids in proteins, which are responsible for the structure and function of all living organisms.
The base pairs rule is a fundamental principle of molecular biology and is essential for understanding the structure, function, and replication of DNA.
