What are the four nitrogenous bases of DNA?

The four nitrogenous bases of DNA are adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine. These bases are fundamental components of the DNA molecule, which is structured as a double helix. In DNA, adenine pairs with thymine through two hydrogen bonds, while cytosine pairs with guanine through three hydrogen bonds. This specific pairing is crucial for the accurate replication of DNA and the transmission of genetic information.

In contrast, uracil is not a component of DNA; it is found in RNA instead, where it takes the place of thymine. This distinction highlights the differences between DNA and RNA, where DNA is the hereditary material in most organisms and RNA plays various roles in protein synthesis and other cellular functions. The recognition of these four specific bases is essential for understanding genetic coding and the molecular biology of organisms.