The term "DNA" is short for deoxyribonucleic acid. DNA is found in all cells. It is so small that it cannot be seen with the naked eye. So, who discovered DNA and how do we know what it looks like?

Interactive exercise. Assistance may be required. Click on the blue dots to learn about the story of DNA.


Take out a piece of paper to respond to the questions below.

  1. What elements make up the molecule, nuclein that Friedrich Meischer discovered?

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    Hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen and phosphorus make up nuclein. Close Pop Up

  2. What contribution did Oswald Avery and his coworkers make in the discovery of DNA?

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    Oswald and his coworkers discovered that DNA is the material of which genes and chromosomes are made.Close Pop Up

  3. Who were the scientists that came up with the final structure of DNA?

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    Watson and Crick came up with the final DNA structure. Close Pop Up

  4. Watson and Crick based their work on the prior research of what other two scientists?

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    Rosalind Franklin and Maurice Wilkins started the research in finalizing the DNA structure. Close Pop Up


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