Final answer:
The three main types of RNA vital for protein synthesis are mRNA, which conveys genetic information from DNA to the cytoplasm, rRNA, which is part of the ribosome's structure, and tRNA, which brings amino acids to the ribosome. DNA and RNA differ in structure—RNA being single-stranded with uracil and DNA being a double-helix with thymine—and in function, with DNA as a genetic information storage and RNA primarily involved in protein synthesis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Types of RNA and Their Functions
The three main types of RNA are essential for protein synthesis. Firstly, Messenger RNA (mRNA) acts as a template, carrying genetic information from DNA to the cytoplasm, where it directs the synthesis of proteins. Secondly, Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) forms an integral part of ribosomes, the cellular structures where proteins are assembled. Lastly, Transfer RNA (tRNA) transports amino acids to the ribosome, contributing them to the growing protein chain according to the sequence specified by the mRNA.
Similarities and Differences between DNA and RNA
DNA and RNA are both nucleic acids playing crucial roles in genetic information. However, they differ in structure and function. RNA is usually single-stranded and contains the base uracil instead of thymine, which is present in DNA's double-helix structure. The roles of RNA are mainly focused on protein synthesis, while DNA's primary role is the storage of long-term genetic information.