Question
Write the main structural difference between DNA and RNA. Of the four bases, name those which are common to both DNA and RNA.
Solution
The structural differences between DNA and RNA are as follows:
|
DNA |
RNA |
||
|
1. |
The sugar moiety in DNA molecules is b-D-2 deoxyribose. |
1. |
The sugar moiety in RNA molecules is b-D-ribose. |
|
2. |
DNA contains uracil (U). It does not contain thymine (T). |
2. |
RNA contains thymine (T). It does not contain uracil (U). |
|
3. |
The helical structure of DNA is double-stranded. |
3. |
The helical structure of RNA is single-stranded. |
