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Name: Lance
Status: Student
Age: 15
Location: N/A
Country: N/A
Date: N/A
Question:
Why do lifeforms on Earth have double helix shaped DNA?

Why not Triple helix or corkscrew shaped DNA?


Replies:
This is an extremely deep question. It could be answered in a number of different ways. Any of which would take considerable time if done thoroughly. We scientists are still debating what the original genetic molecule was on earth. From a perspective of energy, and conserving energy, we know that stable molecules do not evolve from arrangements that use energy the wrong way...much like friendships that take a lot of effort will be less likely to endure. In the same respect our knowledge of the double helix verses a triple helix is that, with the elements involved, the double helix takes the least effort to remain stable.

Peter Faletra


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