Describe the similarities and differences between DNA and RNA structures

Structurally, DNA and RNA are very similar. They're both composed of a backbone of sugar, a phosphate group and a chemical base. However, the sugar in DNA is a deoxyribose sugar and the sugar in RNA is a ribose sugar. In DNA, the chemical bases are; Adenine (A), Thymine (T), Guanine (G), and Cytosine (C). The bases in RNA are very similar except the Thymine (T), is replaced by Uracil (U). The bases form the pairing of; A to T/U, and G to C. DNA forms a double strand and coils into a double helix via hydrogen bonding. Whereas, RNA is a single stranded molecule due to the extra hydroxyl group on the ribose sugar.

SM
Answered by Shannon M. Biology tutor

9421 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe the 'reflex arc'


What is the function of the cell Mitochondria?


Describe the measures the body takes to achieve homeostasis in response to temperature changes


Why are food chains rarely longer than three or four stages?


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