There are two types of nucleic acids, recognised on the basis of pentose
they contain. Those containing ribose are called ribonucleic acid (RNA)
and those containing deoxyribose are known as deoxyribonucleic acid
(DNA).
Besides nitrogenous base uracil replaces thymine in the RNA
molecule.
DNA is a blueprint that directs destiny of the cell during its
lifetime, i.e., it passes from, one- generation to the other to
maintain genetic continuity between parent and progeny. Whereas, RNA is
responsible for transmitting information from the nucleus to ribosomes
where protein synthesis occurs.