Deoxyribonucleic acid and ribonucleic acid (DNA and RNA, respectively) are very important
biomolecules necessary for life. In at least 7 sentences and in your own words, compare
and contrast DNA and RNA. Explain what you know about the components (parts) of DNA
and RNA and their importance. Be sure to include at least five of the following words:
.
• Nucleic acid
• Nucleotide
• Nitrogen base
• Gene
• Genetic code
• Phosphate
• Sugar
• Protein
• Double helix
• Backbone

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and Ribonucleic acid (RNA) are perhaps the most important molecules in cell biology, responsible for the storage and reading of genetic information that underpins all life. They are both linear polymers, consisting of sugars, phosphates and bases, but there are some key differences which separate the two1. These distinctions enable the two molecules to work together and fulfil their essential roles. Here, we look at 5 key differences between DNA and RNA. Before we delve into the differences, we take a look at these two nucleic acids side-by-side.