Intermolecular forces make structure more durable and resistant to harsh conditions. The stronger IMFs present, the stronger/stable the structure is
One of the strong IMF present are H-bonds
Analyzing the base pairs, AT base pair has 2 H-bondings present on it (illustrated by blue bonds)
The DNA double helix (Figure25.40) at the atomic level looks like a twisted ladder, where the "rungs" of the ladder consist of molecules that are hydrogen-bonded together. Sugar and phosphate groups make up the sides of the ladder. Shown are the structures of the adenine-thymine (AT) "base pair" and the guanine-cytosine (GC) base pair.
You can see that AT base pairs are held together by two hydrogen bonds, and the GC base pairs are held together by three hydrogen bonds.
Which base pair is more stable to heating?
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What scientific concept do you need to know in order to solve this problem?
Our tutors have indicated that to solve this problem you will need to apply the Intermolecular Forces and Physical Properties concept. If you need more Intermolecular Forces and Physical Properties practice, you can also practice Intermolecular Forces and Physical Properties practice problems.
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Based on our data, we think this problem is relevant for Professor Kulatunga's class at USF.