Question

Which of these statements of comparison regarding DNA and RNA holds true?

• A. DNA chemically is less reactive and structurally less stable when compared to RNA.
• B. DNA chemically is more reactive and structurally less stable when compared to RNA.
• C. DNA chemically is less reactive and structurally more stable when compared to RNA.
• D. DNA chemically is more reactive and structurally more stable when compared to RNA.

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

In every nucleotide of RNA, there is a presence of free OH group on the 2nd carbon atom. This is a reactive group that makes RNA easily destructible. There is no free OH group on the 2nd carbon atom of DNA nucleotides. Addionally, the presence of thymine instead of uracil makes the DNA more stable. Thus, DNA is more stable but less reactive as compared to RNA.