What are the differences between DNA and RNA in terms of structure and function?

You're on a roll — here are the differences between DNA and RNA: 1. Structural differences between DNA and RNA: Sugar: DNA contains deoxyribose sugar, which lacks a hydroxyl group at the 2' carbon. RNA contains ribose sugar, which has a hydroxyl group at the 2' carbon. Nitrogenous Bases: DNA contains the bases adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), and thymine (T). RNA contains adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), and uracil (U) instead of thymine. Strandedness: DNA is typically a double-stranded molecule, forming a double helix. RNA is typically a single-stranded molecule, though it can fold into complex secondary and tertiary structures. Stability: DNA is generally more stable due to the absence of the 2'-hydroxyl group and its double-stranded nature, making it suitable for long-term genetic information storage. RNA is less stable and more prone to hydrolysis due to the presence of the 2'-hydroxyl group. 2. Functional differences between DNA and RNA: Genetic Information Storage: DNA's primary function is to store and transmit genetic information from one generation to the next. It serves as the blueprint for all cellular activities. Protein Synthesis: RNA plays a central role in expressing genetic information through protein synthesis. Messenger RNA (mRNA) carries genetic code from DNA to ribosomes, ribosomal RNA (rRNA) forms part of the ribosomes, and transfer RNA (tRNA) brings amino acids to the ribosome during translation. Catalytic Activity: Some RNA molecules, known as ribozymes, have catalytic activity, meaning they can function as enzymes to catalyze specific biochemical reactions. DNA does not exhibit catalytic activity. What's next?