RNA: The Working Copy of Genetic Information
RNA at Work
What RNA Is
RNA stands for ribonucleic acid. Like DNA, it is made of nucleotides, but it usually exists as a single strand and uses the base uracil instead of thymine.
Major Types of RNA
Messenger RNA carries instructions from DNA to ribosomes. Transfer RNA brings amino acids. Ribosomal RNA helps form the structure and function of ribosomes.
RNA Types
mRNA
Carries genetic instructions.
tRNA
Brings amino acids to the ribosome.
rRNA
Forms part of the ribosome.
DNA vs RNA
DNA
- Usually double-stranded
- Uses thymine
- Stores long-term genetic information
RNA
- Usually single-stranded
- Uses uracil
- Helps use genetic information
Which RNA carries instructions from DNA to the ribosome?
Messenger RNA transfers the code for building a protein.
Correct answer: mRNA
What base does RNA use instead of thymine?
RNA uses uracil, often written as , in place of thymine.
Correct answer: Uracil.
Which statement about RNA is correct?
RNA commonly contains uracil instead of thymine.
Correct answer: It contains uracil