Learn about the difference between DNA and RNA.
Difference # Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA):
1. Except some viruses, RNA is non-genetic material taking part in protein synthesis.
2. RNA is found both in nucleus and cytoplasm.
3. Usually single-stranded, in some viruses double stranded, e.g., in Reo viruses.
4. Three types – mRNA, rRNA and tRNA.
5. Sugar is present in ribose form.
6. The organic bases are Adenine (A), Guanine (G), Cytosine (C) and Uracil (U).
7. Base pairing : A=U / U=A; C ≡G / G≡C.
8. More unusual bases.
9. Base pairing is only in the helical region.
10. RNA consists of a fewer nucleotides.
11. On replication it forms DNA and on transcription forms RNA.
12. Genetic messages are encoded in DNA.
Difference # Ribonucleic Acid (RNA):
1. DNA is the genetic material, controlling heredity.
2. DNA is mainly found in the chromosome. Some DNA is also found in cytoplasm, i.e., in mitochondria and chloroplast.
3. Usually double-stranded, rarely single- stranded, e.g., in φ x 174.
4. DNA is only one type.
6. The organic bases are Adenine (A), Guanine (G), Thymine (T) and Cytosine (C).
7. Base pairing : A=T/T=A; G≡C/C≡G
8. Fewer unusual bases.
9. Base pairing is throughout the length of the molecule.
10. DNA consists of a large number of nucleotides.
11. Does not replicate or transcribe. In certain viruses, it can synthesize RNA chains.
12. Encoded messages in DNA are translated into protein through RNA.