Here's a breakdown:

* DNA is a complex molecule that carries the genetic instructions for building and maintaining an organism. It's structured like a twisted ladder, with two strands of nucleotides linked together.

* Nucleotides are the building blocks of DNA. Each nucleotide is composed of:

* A sugar molecule (deoxyribose)

* A phosphate group

* A nitrogenous base (adenine, guanine, cytosine, or thymine)

The specific sequence of these nitrogenous bases along the DNA strand determines the genetic information encoded by that gene.

While genes are made of DNA, it's important to note that:

* Genes are specific segments of DNA.

* DNA is found within chromosomes, which are long, thread-like structures found in the nucleus of cells.

* The instructions encoded by genes are ultimately used to create proteins, which perform a wide variety of functions in the body.