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

4070 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How are glucose molecules absorbed in the gut?


What are the different phases of the cell cycle?


What are the functions of glycoproteins in the plasma membrane ?


How does homeostasis in humans serve to regulate blood water potential?


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning