What is the difference between DNA and mRNA?

DNA is much longer than mRNA and forms a chromosome, whereas mRNA is much shorter; corresponding to a single gene. DNA is structurally different; it is usually found as a double helix and contains the base thymine and the sugar deoxyribose, whereas mRNA is single stranded and contains the base uracil instead of thymine and ribose instead of deoxyribose. DNA is also more structurally complex, containing introns and extrons and other features that mRNA does not have.

CM
Answered by Charlotte M. Biology tutor

4840 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Starch is made from two alpha-glucose polymers, amylose and amylopectin. Which is quicker to break down and why?


Why do organs need to be 'matched'?


Why is the oxygen dissociation curve shaped like it is?


Describe the events that occur at synaptic junction that result in an action potential in the post synaptic 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