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Thymine

Definition

Thymine is one of four nucleotide bases found only in DNA; it pairs specifically with adenine through two hydrogen bonds.

Analogy

Consider thymine as a lock and adenine as the key. Just like how a specific key fits into a particular lock, adenine pairs perfectly with thymine in DNA.

Related terms

Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA): The molecule that carries genetic information in all living organisms, where thymine is one of the four bases.

Pyrimidines: A class of organic molecules which includes thymine and cytosine, these are key components in DNA.

Double Helix: The structure formed by double-stranded molecules of nucleic acids such as DNA. Adenine-thymine pairing contributes to this structure.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.