Which statement describes one way that RNA differs from DNA?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct answer: RNA contains the nitrogenous base uracil instead of thymine, which is found in DNA.
Explanation:
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid) are both nucleic acids, essential for storing and transmitting genetic information. Although they share several similarities, they also have key differences in structure and function. One of the most important differences is in the nitrogenous bases they contain.
DNA uses the four nitrogenous bases adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G). In contrast, RNA replaces thymine with uracil (U). This means that in RNA, adenine pairs with uracil instead of thymine. The other base pairs — cytosine with guanine — remain the same in both DNA and RNA.
This difference in nitrogenous bases is significant for a few reasons. First, it helps enzymes and other molecules within the cell distinguish between DNA and RNA. Second, it reflects the different roles that DNA and RNA play in the cell. DNA serves as the long-term storage of genetic information, while RNA functions as a temporary messenger that helps carry instructions from DNA to the ribosomes, where proteins are made.
In addition to the base difference, RNA also differs from DNA in other ways. For example, RNA is usually single-stranded, while DNA is double-stranded and forms a double helix. Also, the sugar in RNA is ribose, which contains one more oxygen atom than the deoxyribose sugar found in DNA.
Understanding the structural differences between DNA and RNA helps explain their different functions in the cell and is fundamental to studying genetics, molecular biology, and biotechnology.
