What are the main structural differences between RNA and DNA?

• A. RNA is double-stranded, while DNA is single-stranded.
• B. RNA contains thymine, while DNA contains uracil.
• C. RNA is more stable than DNA due to its double helix structure.
• D. RNA contains ribose sugar, while DNA contains deoxyribose sugar.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the basic structure of nucleic acids: DNA and RNA are both polymers made up of nucleotides, which consist of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
2. Identify the sugar component in each type of nucleic acid: DNA contains deoxyribose sugar, which lacks one oxygen atom compared to the ribose sugar found in RNA.
3. Examine the nitrogenous bases present in each nucleic acid: DNA contains adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G), while RNA contains adenine (A), uracil (U), cytosine (C), and guanine (G). Note the substitution of uracil for thymine in RNA.
4. Consider the structural form of each nucleic acid: DNA is typically double-stranded, forming a double helix, whereas RNA is usually single-stranded, allowing it to fold into various shapes.
5. Reflect on the stability and function: DNA's double-stranded structure provides stability for long-term genetic storage, while RNA's single-stranded form is more versatile for functions like protein synthesis and regulation.