What is the difference between DNA and RNA?
What is the difference between DNA and RNA?
The physical properties of DNA and RNA are similar in many ways, yet have important differences that distinguish them. DNA and RNA are both macromolecules, meaning they are large molecules with a complex structure. Both are made up of nucleotides, which can be thought of as individual building blocks. Each nucleotide is composed of one or more phosphates that are joined to sugars in a chain along with a nitrogen-containing base.
Although these molecules are constructed in a similar way, their differences in structure and function result in a difference in their roles in the body. DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is responsible for storing genetic information for the long-term. DNA is a double-stranded, biomolecule which is stored in the nucleus of cells. Its double-stranded structure is known as the double-helix and the structure is maintained by base-pairing between the nucleotides. That is, the nucleotides on one strand complete the other strand by pairing with a complementary base. These complementary base-pairings create a stable structure that allows DNA to store genetic information with a high degree of accuracy.
In contrast, RNA (ribonucleic acid) is responsible for transferring genetic information from the nucleus to the rest of the cell. Unlike DNA, RNA is single-stranded and found within the cytoplasm of cells. Its single-stranded structure enables it to interact more easily with other macromolecules, in order to facilitate its function. RNA molecules are further divided into three classes; mRNA, rRNA and tRNA. mRNA acts as a messenger molecule, carrying genetic information from the nucleus to the ribosomes, whereas tRNA and rRNA play a role in protein synthesis.
In summary, although the structure of DNA and RNA may be similar, their role and structure within the cell are different. DNA is responsible for storing genetic information and is double-stranded, whereas RNA is involved in interpreting that information and is single-stranded. Although both nucleic acids are necessary for cellular life, they serve different functions within the body.
Although these molecules are constructed in a similar way, their differences in structure and function result in a difference in their roles in the body. DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is responsible for storing genetic information for the long-term. DNA is a double-stranded, biomolecule which is stored in the nucleus of cells. Its double-stranded structure is known as the double-helix and the structure is maintained by base-pairing between the nucleotides. That is, the nucleotides on one strand complete the other strand by pairing with a complementary base. These complementary base-pairings create a stable structure that allows DNA to store genetic information with a high degree of accuracy.
In contrast, RNA (ribonucleic acid) is responsible for transferring genetic information from the nucleus to the rest of the cell. Unlike DNA, RNA is single-stranded and found within the cytoplasm of cells. Its single-stranded structure enables it to interact more easily with other macromolecules, in order to facilitate its function. RNA molecules are further divided into three classes; mRNA, rRNA and tRNA. mRNA acts as a messenger molecule, carrying genetic information from the nucleus to the ribosomes, whereas tRNA and rRNA play a role in protein synthesis.
In summary, although the structure of DNA and RNA may be similar, their role and structure within the cell are different. DNA is responsible for storing genetic information and is double-stranded, whereas RNA is involved in interpreting that information and is single-stranded. Although both nucleic acids are necessary for cellular life, they serve different functions within the body.
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