Question

List three structural characteristics of RNA that are different than those of DNA. Make sure to describe what the characteristic is in RNA and DNA.

Answer 1

RNA is single-stranded, uses ribose sugar, and has uracil instead of thymine as a base, distinguishing it from the double-stranded, deoxyribose-containing, and thymine-inclusive DNA.

Step-by-step explanation:

RNA differs from DNA in several structural characteristics that impact its function and interaction within the cell. Here are three key differences:

• Ribose vs. Deoxyribose: The sugar in RNA nucleotides is ribose, while in DNA it is deoxyribose. Ribose has a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to the 2' carbon of the sugar ring which is absent in deoxyribose.
• Single-stranded vs. Double-stranded: RNA is generally single-stranded allowing it to fold into unique three-dimensional structures essential for its various roles. DNA, on the other hand, is double-stranded, forming a stable double helix suitable for long-term genetic storage.
• Uracil vs. Thymine: RNA uses uracil (U) as one of its bases, whereas DNA uses thymine (T). This substitution influences base pairing during transcription and other RNA-based processes.

These distinctions contribute to RNA's function in protein synthesis, and its ability to act as hereditary information in some viruses.