2007-01-15 08:43:41 · 4 answers · asked by Kendall 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
All of the above are right in their definitions, and because of those definitions, I just have to add that the term "antiparallel" as weird as it sounds, is necessary in order to inform to whom reads a description of the DNA molecule that each strand of the helix is running in opposite directions one respect the other.
2007-01-15 09:13:31 · answer #1 · answered by CHESSLARUS 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Antiparallel means the strands are parallel, but they're lined up upside down from each other. For example, you would be antiparallel with someone if you layed parralel to them with your head near their feet.
The enzymes that synthesize DNA require an antiparallel arrangement.
2007-01-15 08:49:04 · answer #2 · answered by Intrepyd 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
take two right handed screws. Align them so that they
both could be driven into a table top. They are parallel.
Now, turn one upside down so that its head is on the table
top. They are antiparallel.
Also, take a right handed screw and a left handed screw
and align them so that they can be driven into the table top.
They are anti-parallel.
The helix or threading gives directionality.
2007-01-15 08:51:33 · answer #3 · answered by farmer 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is a direction to each strand of the double helix, and the two strands run next to each other ("parallel"), but in opposite directions.
2007-01-15 09:07:24 · answer #4 · answered by novangelis 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋