Chapter 6, Problem 11A

Summary Introduction

To write:

It is important for living organisms to have both strong bonds (covalent and ionic) and weak bonds (hydrogen and van der Waals forces).

Introduction:

It is important for living organisms to have both strong bond and weak bond because strong covalent bonds keep together the chemical building blocks that make up a strand of DNA. However, weaker hydrogen bonds hold together the two strands of the DNA double helix. These weak bonds keep the DNA stable, however additionally permit it to be unfolded for copying and use through the cell.

Explanation of Solution

Strong covalent bonds are important in living organisms because they link atoms to form cell molecules like hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen atoms. The weak bonds are important because they are also necessary in the cell, contributing greatly to the development properties of life.

Conclusion

So, it is important for living organisms to have both strong bonds and weak bonds.