Describe the similarities and differences in structure between DNA and RNA

Both DNA and RNA are molecules related to protein coding in a cell. The basic structure has a carbon sugar backbone with 4 different nitrogenous bases. In DNA there are two of these strands connected by the alignment of base pairs using H bonds forming a double helix, but RNA is single stranded. The nitrogenous base pairs of DNA consist of Adenine to Thymine and Cytosine to Guanine. In RNA, however, Thymine is replaced with a smaller nitrogenous base called Uracil.

EL
Answered by Emily L. Biology tutor

3270 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Some substances can cross the cell-surface membrane of a cell by simple diffusion through the phospholipid bilayer. Describe other ways by which substances cross this membrane.


Explain the concept of natural selection. Give an example.


What is cancer?


How to we acquire monoclonal antibodies


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