The Path to the Double Helix: The Discovery of DNAThe 1953 discovery by James Watson and Francis Crick of the molecular structure of DNA ranks among the most dramatic events in the history of science. In this lively, perceptive, and scholarly study, a noted historian of science provides the first in-depth account of this milestone's achievement. Combining scientific and historical approaches, the narrative vividly recaptures the excitement of the conceptualization and evolution of ideas that led to the discovery of the genetic "secret of life." The story unfolds along several major lines: long-chain macromolecules; nucleic acids; bacterial transformations; the intellectual evolutions of physicists, chemists, and biologists; and the cross-pollination of scientific disciplines that unlocked the structural secrets of DNA. Francis Crick provides an illuminating Foreword for this abundantly illustrated and thought-provoking retelling of a great scientific detective story. |
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able achieved activity alkaptonuria amino acids analysis appeared approach Astbury atoms attempt Avery Bacteriophage bases Bernal biology bonds building called Cambridge cell cent chain chemical chemistry chromosomes complex conception conclusion Crick crystal crystalline described determination diagram diffraction direction discovery discussion early enzyme established evidence existence fact fibre find first forces Franklin gave gene genetic give given helical helix hydrogen idea important Institute interest known later lecture letter material mechanism methods molecular molecules nature nucleic acid nucleotides organic original pairing particles pattern Pauling phage physics picture polypeptide position possible present problem production protein published quantum mechanics question reason residues seems sequence single specific structure substance suggested technique theory thought transformation unit University virus Watson weight Wilkins wrote X-ray