Both DNA and RNA are synthesized by covalently linking a nucleoside triphosphate to the previous nucleotide, constantly adding to a growing chain. In the case of DNA, the new strand becomes part of a stable helix. The two strands are complementary in sequence and antiparallel in directionality. What is the principal force that holds these two strands together?
(a) ionic interactions
(b) hydrogen bonds
(c) covalent bonds
(d) van der Waals interactions
Answer: B