Which component is not part of a nucleotide?

Test your knowledge with the Campbell Biology Concepts and Connections Quiz. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for your biology concepts exam!

Multiple Choice

Which component is not part of a nucleotide?

Explanation:
Nucleotides are built from three parts: a five‑carbon sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The carboxyl group is not part of this trio; it’s a common feature of amino acids and fatty acids, not nucleotides. In nucleotides, the phosphate group links to the sugar to form the backbone, and the nitrogenous base attaches to the sugar. Therefore, the carboxyl group does not belong in a nucleotide’s structure.

Nucleotides are built from three parts: a five‑carbon sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The carboxyl group is not part of this trio; it’s a common feature of amino acids and fatty acids, not nucleotides. In nucleotides, the phosphate group links to the sugar to form the backbone, and the nitrogenous base attaches to the sugar. Therefore, the carboxyl group does not belong in a nucleotide’s structure.

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