RNA and DNA are similar because                  . a. both are double-stranded helices; b. uracil is found in both of them; c. both contain the sugar deoxyribose; d. both are made up of nucleotides consisting of a sugar, a phosphate, and a base

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the basic structural components of nucleic acids, which include a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
2. Recognize that both DNA and RNA are polymers made up of nucleotides.
3. Understand the differences in the sugar component of RNA and DNA: RNA contains ribose sugar, while DNA contains deoxyribose sugar.
4. Note the difference in nitrogenous bases between RNA and DNA: RNA contains uracil instead of thymine, which is found in DNA.
5. Conclude that the correct answer must involve a component common to both RNA and DNA, focusing on the structure of their nucleotides.

Key Concepts

Nucleotides

Nucleotides are the building blocks of nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA. Each nucleotide consists of three components: a sugar molecule, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. In DNA, the sugar is deoxyribose, while in RNA, it is ribose. The sequence of these nucleotides encodes genetic information, making them essential for the structure and function of both DNA and RNA.

Differences between DNA and RNA

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid) differ in several key aspects. DNA is typically double-stranded and contains the sugar deoxyribose, while RNA is usually single-stranded and contains ribose. Additionally, DNA uses thymine as one of its nitrogenous bases, whereas RNA uses uracil instead. These differences are crucial for their respective roles in genetic information storage and protein synthesis.

Base Pairing

Base pairing refers to the specific hydrogen bonding between nitrogenous bases in nucleic acids. In DNA, adenine pairs with thymine, and cytosine pairs with guanine, forming the double helix structure. In RNA, adenine pairs with uracil instead of thymine. This complementary base pairing is fundamental for processes like DNA replication and RNA transcription, ensuring accurate genetic information transfer.