What are the Differences Between DNA and RNA?

DNA and RNA are some of the most important molecules in our body. DNA and RNA both hold genetic information and work together to create various proteins in our bodies. While RNA comes from DNA, there are a lot of aspects that set them apart.

One of the most significant differences in their function. DNA contains the genetic information necessary to carry out life’s processes. On the other hand, RNA transfers this genetic code to make proteins. You can think of it like DNA is the post office and RNA is the mailman. Moreover, their function and life span are related. Due to DNA storing our genetic code, it needs to last a long time. On the other hand, RNA is temporary since it is used in the process of making proteins.

Additionally, their structure is another key difference. DNA is double-stranded whereas RNA is single-stranded. The double-stranded structure of DNA allows more bonds to form making it stable, which helps them withstand our body’s environment. RNA is single-stranded because it is only needed as a template to create proteins. After it performs its job RNA disintegrates. Furthermore, the structure of both DNA and RNA is held together by a backbone. One of the main structural components of DNA’s backbone is a sugar called deoxyribose, hence the name deoxyribonucleic acid. However, the main sugar in RNA’s backbone is ribose, which is in its name ribonucleic acid.

These are just the basics differences to help differentiate between them. DNA and RNA are very important to sustaining our life, so it is important to distinguish them from one another. Although they are separate from one another, they work together to create most living things on our planet.

Picture Source: sciencenotes.org