Key Differences between DNA and RNA
- Although both DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid) are nucleic acids built from nucleotide monomers, they differ in several key features.
- These differences are both structural, and molecular.
DNA vs. RNA At A Glance
| Feature | DNA | RNA |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Deoxyribonucleic Acid | Ribonucleic Acid |
| Strands | Double-stranded | Single-stranded |
| Sugar | Deoxyribose (lacks one oxygen atom) | Ribose |
| Nitrogenous Bases | Adenine (A), Thymine (T), Cytosine (C), Guanine (G) | Adenine (A), Uracil (U), Cytosine (C), Guanine (G) |
| Base Pairing | A pairs with T; C pairs with G | A pairs with U; C pairs with G |
| Function | Stores genetic information for long-term use | Transmits genetic information for protein synthesis |
| Stability | Stable due to double-stranded structure | Less stable, designed for short-term use |
| Location | Mainly in the nucleus (some in mitochondria) | Found in the nucleus and cytoplasm |
- Think of ribose as a high-performance sports car, fast and reactive, but less durable.
- Deoxyribose, on the other hand, is like a sturdy SUV, built for stability and endurance.
- When asked to compare DNA and RNA, always organize your answer systematically into strands, bases, sugars.
- IB markschemes award separate points for each.
How does DNA’s structural stability contribute to its role as a hereditary molecule? Could RNA ever replace DNA in this role? Why or why not?
Self review- How many strands are present in DNA and RNA?
- What are the four nitrogenous bases in RNA?
- What structural feature distinguishes ribose from deoxyribose?
