Final answer:
In what way does the structure of DNA differ from RNA? C) DNA has a double helix structure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary structural difference between DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid) lies in their respective configurations. C) DNA is characterized by a double helix structure, composed of two complementary strands running antiparallel to each other.
The strands are held together by hydrogen bonds between complementary base pairs: adenine (A) pairs with thymine (T), and guanine (G) pairs with cytosine (C). This intricate double helix shape provides stability and protection to the genetic information encoded in DNA.
On the other hand, RNA is typically single-stranded and does not form a double helix to the same extent as DNA. While RNA also contains adenine, guanine, and cytosine, it replaces thymine with uracil (U) in base pairing. RNA is involved in various cellular processes, including protein synthesis and gene regulation.
The single-stranded nature of RNA allows it to adopt diverse structures, facilitating its role in these biological functions. Thus, the double helix structure is a distinctive feature of DNA, setting it apart from RNA in terms of molecular architecture.
Understanding the structural disparities between DNA and RNA is fundamental to grasping their distinct roles in cellular processes and genetics. The double helix structure of DNA is a hallmark of its stability and ability to store genetic information, while the versatility of RNA's single-stranded structure contributes to its multifaceted functions in cellular activities.