List three main differences between DNA and RNA.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the sugar component in the nucleotides of DNA and RNA. DNA contains deoxyribose sugar, while RNA contains ribose sugar. This difference affects the stability and structure of the molecules.
2. Examine the nitrogenous bases present in DNA and RNA. DNA has the bases adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G), whereas RNA has uracil (U) instead of thymine.
3. Consider the typical structure and strand number. DNA is usually double-stranded forming a double helix, while RNA is typically single-stranded and can fold into various shapes.
4. Note the functional roles: DNA primarily stores genetic information, while RNA plays roles in protein synthesis and gene regulation.
5. Summarize the three main differences focusing on sugar type, nitrogenous bases, and strand structure.

Key Concepts

Structural Differences

DNA and RNA differ structurally; DNA is typically double-stranded forming a double helix, while RNA is usually single-stranded. Additionally, DNA contains the sugar deoxyribose, whereas RNA contains ribose, which has one more oxygen atom.

Nitrogenous Bases

Both DNA and RNA have four nitrogenous bases, but DNA uses thymine (T) while RNA uses uracil (U) instead. The other bases—adenine (A), cytosine (C), and guanine (G)—are common to both molecules.

Function and Location

DNA primarily stores genetic information in the nucleus, serving as a long-term blueprint for the organism. RNA plays various roles, including acting as a messenger (mRNA), structural component (rRNA), and adapter (tRNA) in protein synthesis, often found in both nucleus and cytoplasm.