Which component is not part of a nucleotide?

Study for the Campbell Biology Concepts and Connections Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with detailed explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam now!

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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