Final answer:
Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) is the type of RNA known for its catalytic abilities, acting as a ribozyme within the ribosome to catalyze the formation of peptide bonds, exemplified by the peptidyl transferase activity of the 23sE rRNA in the ribosome's large subunit.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of RNA known for its catalytic abilities is ribosomal RNA (rRNA). Unlike mRNA, which is read in codons and dictates the synthesis of proteins, and tRNA, which carries amino acids to the ribosome, rRNA plays a pivotal role within the ribosome's structure and function. rRNA ensures the proper alignment of mRNA and ribosomes and is directly involved in the enzymatic activity that catalyzes the formation of peptide bonds between two aligned amino acids during protein synthesis, an activity known as peptidyl transferase. Therefore, the rRNA within the ribosomes acts as a ribozyme, a term which describes RNA molecules with enzymatic functions. Specifically, the 23sE rRNA is a component of the ribosome's large subunit that facilitates transpeptidation, effectively acting as a catalyst during protein biosynthesis.