Question:

In DNA, the consecutive deoxynucleotides are connected by

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DNA backbone = Sugar + Phosphate connected via 3'-5' phosphodiester bonds.
Updated On: May 8, 2026
  • phosphodiester linkage
  • phosphomonoester linkage
  • phosphotriester linkage
  • amide linkage
  • imide linkage
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Concept: DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is a polymer made up of repeating units called deoxynucleotides. Each nucleotide consists of:
• A nitrogenous base
• A deoxyribose sugar
• A phosphate group The linkage between nucleotides determines the structure of DNA.

Step 1: Structure of DNA backbone.
The backbone of DNA consists of alternating: \[ \text{Sugar} - \text{Phosphate} - \text{Sugar} - \text{Phosphate} \]

Step 2: Nature of bonding.
The phosphate group forms bonds with:
• 3' carbon of one sugar
• 5' carbon of next sugar Thus, one phosphate connects two sugars → forms di-ester linkage.

Step 3: Why phosphodiester?

• Two ester bonds → “di-ester”
• Involves phosphate group → “phosphodiester”

Step 4: Eliminate other options.

• Phosphomonoester → only one ester bond → incorrect
• Phosphotriester → three ester bonds → not in DNA
• Amide linkage → found in proteins, not DNA
• Imide linkage → not relevant here Final Conclusion: \[ \boxed{\text{DNA has phosphodiester linkage}} \]
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