Question

What is the primary difference between the sugars found in DNA and RNA?

• A. DNA contains ribose while RNA contains deoxyribose
• B. DNA contains deoxyribose while RNA contains ribose
• C. Both DNA and RNA contain ribose
• D. Both DNA and RNA contain deoxyribose

Hint:

Remember: {DNA = Deoxyribose sugar} {RNA = Ribose sugar} The absence of one oxygen atom in DNA makes it more chemically stable than RNA.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) and RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) are nucleic acids that store and transmit genetic information. Both are composed of nucleotides consisting of a nitrogenous base, a phosphate group, and a sugar molecule. The key structural difference between DNA and RNA lies in the type of sugar present in their nucleotides.
Step 1: Sugar in DNA.
DNA contains the sugar deoxyribose. Deoxyribose is similar to ribose but lacks one oxygen atom at the \(2'\) carbon position. \[ \text{DNA sugar} = \text{Deoxyribose} \]
Step 2: Sugar in RNA.
RNA contains the sugar ribose, which has an additional oxygen atom compared to deoxyribose. \[ \text{RNA sugar} = \text{Ribose} \]
Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, the primary difference between the sugars of DNA and RNA is: \[ \text{DNA contains deoxyribose while RNA contains ribose} \]