How many hydrogen bonds are formed between cytosine and guanine pairs?

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Study for the UCF PCB3063 Genetics Final Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

Cytosine and guanine form three hydrogen bonds when they pair with each other in the structure of DNA. This specific pairing is critical to the stability of the DNA double helix. The hydrogen bonds that form between these two bases are essential for maintaining the correct shape of the DNA molecule and ensuring accurate replication and transcription processes.

In addition to contributing to the stability of the DNA structure, the three hydrogen bonds formed by the cytosine-guanine pairing result in a stronger interaction compared to pairs that form fewer hydrogen bonds. This has implications for the overall complexity and fidelity of genetic information stored within DNA. The arrangement of these bonds highlights the specificity of base pairing, which plays a crucial role in the integrity of genetic information during cellular processes.