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Multiple Choice
Which of the following are two key differences between DNA and RNA?
A
DNA contains deoxyribose sugar and is double-stranded, while RNA contains ribose sugar and is single-stranded.
B
DNA is a protein, while RNA is a carbohydrate.
C
DNA is found only in the nucleus, while RNA is found only in the cytoplasm.
D
DNA uses uracil as a base, while RNA uses thymine.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the basic structure of DNA and RNA. DNA stands for deoxyribonucleic acid, and RNA stands for ribonucleic acid. Both are nucleic acids, but they differ in their sugar components and strand structure.
Identify the sugar component in each molecule. DNA contains deoxyribose sugar, which lacks one oxygen atom compared to ribose sugar found in RNA. This difference is crucial in distinguishing between the two molecules.
Examine the strand structure of DNA and RNA. DNA is typically double-stranded, forming a double helix, whereas RNA is usually single-stranded. This structural difference affects their functions and stability.
Consider the location and function of DNA and RNA within a cell. DNA is primarily located in the nucleus and serves as the genetic blueprint for organisms. RNA, on the other hand, can be found in the cytoplasm and is involved in protein synthesis and other cellular processes.
Understand the base pairing differences. DNA uses the bases adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine, while RNA uses adenine, uracil, cytosine, and guanine. The substitution of uracil for thymine in RNA is a key difference in their base composition.