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Which of the following molecules are found in substantial quantities in both the cell membrane and DNA?

  • A. Nitrogenous bases
  • B. Steroids
  • C. Phosphate groups
  • D. Lipids
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Phosphate groups are crucial components of the DNA backbone, forming the phosphodiester bonds between nucleotides. In DNA, the phosphate group connects the 3' carbon of one nucleotide to the 5' carbon of the next nucleotide. In the cell membrane, phospholipids are the main components, with phosphate groups present in the hydrophilic head of the molecule. This key structural feature allows phospholipids to form the lipid bilayer that comprises the cell membrane. While nitrogenous bases are essential components of DNA, they are not found in substantial quantities in the cell membrane. Steroids are not typically abundant in either the cell membrane or DNA. Lipids, although present in the cell membrane, do not have the same substantial presence in DNA as phosphate groups do.