* Adenine (A) always pairs with Thymine (T). They form two hydrogen bonds between them.
* Guanine (G) always pairs with Cytosine (C). They form three hydrogen bonds between them.
This pairing is known as complementary base pairing. It's essential for DNA replication and transcription, ensuring the correct sequence of nucleotides is maintained during these processes.
Here's why complementary base pairing is so crucial:
* Stability: The hydrogen bonds between the paired bases contribute to the stability of the DNA double helix.
* Accuracy: The specific pairing ensures that the correct nucleotide sequence is copied during replication and transcription, minimizing errors.
* Genetic code: The order of the bases determines the genetic code, which instructs the cell to build proteins and other essential molecules.
Let me know if you'd like a more detailed explanation of the hydrogen bonding or the role of base pairing in replication and transcription!
