DNA can be twisted like a rope in a process called DNA supercoiling.  With DNA in its "relaxed" state, a strand usually circles the axis of the double helix once every 10. 4 base pairs, but if the DNA is twisted the strands become more tightly or more loosely wound.  If the DNA is twisted in the direction of the helix, this is positive supercoiling, and the bases are held more tightly together
DNA can be twisted like a rope in a process called DNA supercoiling.  With DNA in its "relaxed" state, a strand usually circles the axis of the double helix once every 10. 4 base pairs, but if the DNA is twisted the strands become more tightly or more loosely wound.  If the DNA is twisted in the direction of the helix, this is positive supercoiling, and the bases are held more tightly together