What is the difference between DNA and RNA?

DNA, deoxyribonucleic acid, is responsible for storing genetic information and is composed of a chain of nucleotides. Each nucleotide is formed by a nitrogen base, a phosphate backbone and a sugar. There are four bases, Guanine, Thymine, Cytosine and Adenine. DNA is also a double stranded molecule which forms a structural helix. This means the bases of two strands nucleotides connect, forming bridges between the two strands. These bridges only occur through specific combinations of bases. Guanine connects to Cytosine and Adenine connects to Thymine. Pairs of Guanine and Cytosine or Adenine and Thymine are called bases pairs. On the other hand, RNA, ribonucleic acid, is a single stranded molecule. RNA aids with protein synthesis and it is formed by the same components, except instead of Thymine it uses another base called Uracil.

Answered by Ana D. Biology tutor

2885 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between Aerobic and Anaerobic respiration?


Explain how the human circulatory system is adapted to supply oxygen to the tissues and remove waste products from tissues.


The average lifespan of a human male can vary from 40 years to 85 years. The lifespan partly depends on the things available in the country where the man lives. Suggest three things that would increase the chance of a man having a longer lifespan.


Why does a dominant allele mean a higher probability that offspring are affected by a disease?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences