Question

DNA is considered as a better genetic material than RNA. Choose the most appropriate reason from the given options.

• A. 2'-OH group present at every nucleotide in RNA is a reactive group and makes RNA labile and easily degradable
• B. Though DNA is chemically more reactive it is structurally more stable when compared to RNA
• C. DNA is known to be catalytic in nature thereby helping cells to carry out various reactions
• D. No, RNA is better genetic material than DNA

Answer 1

The correct option is A 2'-OH group present at every nucleotide in RNA is a reactive group and makes RNA labile and easily degradable

DNA has deoxyribose sugar which implies that it does not possess 2’-OH group. Due to the absence of this hydroxy group, DNA is less reactive, labile and more stable compared to RNA where free 2’-OH group is present in the sugar. Some catalytic activities are also seen in case of RNA but not in DNA which makes DNA relatively more stable. Moreover, DNA has thymine instead of uracil which adds to its stability. DNA being more stable is preferred for storage of genetic information. Hence, DNA is considered as a better genetic material than RNA.