What is the difference between DNA and RNA?

DNA is a double helix, made up of two polynucleotide strands.  RNA is comprised of only one polynucleotide strand.  

The sugar in the sugar-phosphate backbone of DNA is deoxyribose, whereas ribose is present in RNA.  

Both DNA and RNA contain the bases adenine, guanine and cytosine.  In DNA, adenine pairs with thymine, but in RNA it pairs with uracil.  

DNA is more stable than RNA.  

CB
Answered by Claire B. Biology tutor

25634 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain the role of the pancreas in controlling blood glucose levels when they are too high.


Describe how a heartbeat is initiated and coordinated?


Cystic fibrosis is an autosomal recessive condition. In a population, 0.04% of individuals have the disease. Use the Hardy-Weinberg equation to calculate the number of carriers of cystic fibrosis.


Describe the structure of the cell membrane.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning