Which of the following describes a nucleotide?

Prepare for the Virginia 7th Grade Science SOL Test. Incorporate flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and detailed explanations. Ensure your success on the exam!

Multiple Choice

Which of the following describes a nucleotide?

Explanation:
Nucleotides are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. Each nucleotide contains three parts: a five‑carbon sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The sugar and phosphate form the backbone of the strand, while the nitrogenous base stores the genetic information that pairs with another base to encode instructions. In DNA the sugar is deoxyribose, in RNA it is ribose. The other options describe different molecules: proteins are made of amino acids, fats are glycerol with fatty acids, and carbohydrates are chains of sugar units. So, describing a nucleotide as having a sugar, a phosphate, and a nitrogenous base is the best fit.

Nucleotides are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. Each nucleotide contains three parts: a five‑carbon sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The sugar and phosphate form the backbone of the strand, while the nitrogenous base stores the genetic information that pairs with another base to encode instructions. In DNA the sugar is deoxyribose, in RNA it is ribose. The other options describe different molecules: proteins are made of amino acids, fats are glycerol with fatty acids, and carbohydrates are chains of sugar units. So, describing a nucleotide as having a sugar, a phosphate, and a nitrogenous base is the best fit.

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