A student used poster board to construct this model of a section of DNA.

Question

Which statement describes this model of DNA?
The model is inaccurate because some typical bases in DNA are missing.
The model is accurate because it shows each base splitting to form a double helix.
The model is inaccurate because the base pairs are incorrect.
The model is accurate because it contains correctly paired bases.

Answer 1

To determine which statement is most accurate regarding the model of DNA constructed by the student, we should consider the essential characteristics of DNA:

1. DNA is made up of two strands that form a double helix structure.
2. The strands are composed of nucleotide bases that pair specifically: adenine (A) pairs with thymine (T), and cytosine (C) pairs with guanine (G).
3. Models should include both strands and appropriately paired bases.

Based on these characteristics, let's analyze the options:

1. The model is inaccurate because some typical bases in DNA are missing. - This may be true if the model does not include all the necessary components (e.g., if it lacks certain bases).

2. The model is accurate because it shows each base splitting to form a double helix. - This is not an accurate description of the structure or behavior of DNA, as bases do not split; rather, they pair together in the double helix.

3. The model is inaccurate because the base pairs are incorrect. - This is a valid option if the model contains incorrect pairings (e.g., A pairing with C instead of T).

4. The model is accurate because it contains correctly paired bases. - If the model displays correctly paired bases according to the rules of base pairing (A with T and C with G), then this statement could be accurate.

Without additional information about whether the model displays correct base pairings or if it is missing specific bases, the most definitive claim we can make is typically based on whether or not the base pairs are correctly matched.

If the model has correctly paired bases, then the best answer would be: The model is accurate because it contains correctly paired bases.

If the model has incorrect pairs or missing components, then the answer would lean towards indicating its inaccuracies, likely pointing to either the incorrect pairing of bases or missing bases.

In the absence of seeing the model, I recommend choosing the most fitting option based on the presence of correct pairing or notable inaccuracies in what has been described.