Scribd
Upload
1 views

DNA and RNA

DNA and RNA are essential molecules that carry genetic instructions for all living organisms. DNA is a double-stranded helix that stores genetic information, while RNA is a single-stranded molecule involved in protein synthesis. Key differences include the type of sugar and nitrogenous bases they contain, as well as their structural forms and functions.

Uploaded by

ezra04694
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
1 views

DNA and RNA

DNA and RNA are essential molecules that carry genetic instructions for all living organisms. DNA is a double-stranded helix that stores genetic information, while RNA is a single-stranded molecule involved in protein synthesis. Key differences include the type of sugar and nitrogenous bases they contain, as well as their structural forms and functions.

Uploaded by

ezra04694
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 2

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (Ribonucleic acid) are two fundamental molecules that contain

the genetic instructions used in the development and function of all living organisms.

*DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid)*

DNA is a double-stranded helix made up of nucleotides, which are composed of:

1. Sugar molecule (deoxyribose)

2. Phosphate group

3. Nitrogenous base (adenine, guanine, cytosine, or thymine)

The sequence of nitrogenous bases determines the genetic information encoded in the DNA. The base
pairing rules are as follows:

- Adenine (A) pairs with thymine (T)

- Guanine (G) pairs with cytosine (C)

DNA serves as the primary storage of genetic information, passing it from one generation to the next.

*RNA (Ribonucleic acid)*

RNA is a single-stranded molecule made up of nucleotides, similar to DNA. However, RNA contains the
sugar molecule ribose instead of deoxyribose, and the nitrogenous base uracil (U) instead of thymine
(T).

There are several types of RNA, including:


1. *Messenger RNA (mRNA)*: carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosomes for protein
synthesis

2. *Transfer RNA (tRNA)*: brings amino acids to the ribosomes during protein synthesis

3. *Ribosomal RNA (rRNA)*: makes up a large part of the ribosomes, which are responsible for protein
synthesis

RNA plays a crucial role in protein synthesis, as it acts as a messenger between the genetic information
stored in DNA and the ribosomes, where proteins are assembled.

*Key differences between DNA and RNA*

1. *Double-stranded vs. single-stranded*: DNA is double-stranded, while RNA is single-stranded.

2. *Sugar molecule*: DNA contains deoxyribose, while RNA contains ribose.

3. *Nitrogenous base*: DNA contains thymine (T), while RNA contains uracil (U).

4. *Function*: DNA stores genetic information, while RNA plays a role in protein synthesis and other
cellular processes.

You might also like