What type of bond holds the two strands of a DNA molecule together?

The type of bond that holds the two strands of a DNA molecule together is a hydrogen bond. In the structure of DNA, the two strands are made up of nucleotides, which pair with each other through specific base pairing: adenine pairs with thymine, and cytosine pairs with guanine. These base pairs are connected by hydrogen bonds, which are relatively weak compared to covalent bonds but are crucial for stabilizing the double helix structure. The ability of hydrogen bonds to form and break easily allows the DNA strands to separate during processes like replication and transcription, making them essential for the functioning of the genetic material. The specific pairing and the multiple hydrogen bonds between pairs ensure the integrity and stability of the DNA molecule, which is fundamental for its role in heredity and cellular function.