How Do You Make A DNA Model Using Clay?
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is often referred to as the building block of life. The arrangement of bases on the deoxyribose-phosphate backbone provides the codes necessary for life processes. Studying the structure of the DNA molecule facilitates a greater understanding of DNA during transcription and replication, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. This understanding may be accomplished by creating a model of DNA allowing manipulation and a closer study of DNA. Colored modeling clay and floral wire provide readily available and inexpensive materials for construction of a DNA model. Decide on the colors to represent the major components of the DNA molecule. For example, black may represent the deoxyribose backbone, white the phosphate groups linking the deoxyribose, red for adenine, blue for thymine, green for cytosine, and yellow for guanine. Roll the black clay (or whichever color was chosen for the deoxyribose) into three-quarter inch diameter balls. Roll the white c
