key concept 13.2 DNA Has a Structure That Suits Its Function

In determining the structure of DNA, scientists hoped to answer two questions: (1) how is DNA replicated between cell divisions, and (2) how does it direct the synthesis of specific proteins? DNA’s structure was deciphered only after many types of experimental evidence were considered together in a theoretical framework.

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  • Watson and Crick used X-ray diffraction data in conjunction with chemical evidence to build the double helix model for DNA.

  • The genetic material performs four important functions and is well suited to its biological functions.