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Multiple Choice
Which sugar is found in DNA, and which is found in RNA?
A
Both DNA and RNA contain deoxyribose.
B
Both DNA and RNA contain ribose.
C
DNA contains deoxyribose; RNA contains ribose.
D
DNA contains ribose; RNA contains deoxyribose.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structural difference between DNA and RNA: DNA stands for deoxyribonucleic acid, and RNA stands for ribonucleic acid. The names themselves hint at the type of sugar present in each molecule.
Learn the sugar components: DNA contains deoxyribose, which is a five-carbon sugar lacking one oxygen atom at the 2' position compared to ribose. RNA contains ribose, which is a five-carbon sugar with a hydroxyl (-OH) group at the 2' position.
Compare the chemical structures: Deoxyribose (C₅H₁₀O₄) has one less oxygen atom than ribose (C₅H₁₀O₅). This difference is crucial for the stability and function of DNA and RNA.
Relate the sugar to the molecule's function: The absence of the hydroxyl group in deoxyribose makes DNA more chemically stable, suitable for long-term genetic storage. The presence of the hydroxyl group in ribose makes RNA more reactive, suitable for short-term functions like protein synthesis.
Conclude the correct answer: DNA contains deoxyribose, and RNA contains ribose. This distinction is fundamental to understanding the molecular biology of nucleic acids.