Which structure describes two strands of nucleotides wound about each other?

The description of two strands of nucleotides wound about each other corresponds to the double helix structure. This iconic shape is most commonly associated with DNA, where two long strands of nucleotides twist around each other, creating a helical form. Each strand is composed of repeating units called nucleotides, which consist of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The bases from each strand pair specifically (adenine with thymine and cytosine with guanine), helping to stabilize the overall double helix structure.

This structure is essential for the storage and transmission of genetic information, as it allows for accurate replication during cell division and provides a means for genetic variation through processes like recombination. The stability and integrity provided by this structure are vital for the proper functioning of living organisms. Understanding the double helix is fundamental in genetics, as it serves as the basis for how genetic information is organized, duplicated, and expressed.