Final answer:
DNA and RNA differ in structure and function: DNA is double-stranded and stores genetic information, RNA is single-stranded and is involved in protein synthesis. RNA contains ribose and uracil, while DNA contains deoxyribose and thymine.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main differences between RNA and DNA are structural and functional. DNA is typically double-stranded, forming the well-known double helix shape, while RNA is usually single-stranded. This single-stranded structure allows RNA to fold upon itself and create intricate three-dimensional shapes that are crucial for its various functions in the cell. The three main types of RNA — messenger RNA (mRNA), ribosomal RNA (rRNA), and transfer RNA (tRNA) — each play a distinct role in protein synthesis. For the bases within these molecules, RNA contains uracil instead of the thymine found in DNA.
In DNA, the sugar is deoxyribose, which lacks a hydroxyl group at the 2' position, while RNA contains ribose that includes this hydroxyl group. Functionally, DNA stores genetic information and is replicated to pass on this information. In contrast, RNA is synthesized from DNA during transcription and is key in translating genetic information into proteins. Messenger RNA (mRNA) is produced in the cell nucleus and then travels to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm to guide protein synthesis.