DNA molecules are more stable than RNA molecules in alkaline medium. Which one of the following statements explains this situation correctly?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking which statement correctly explains why DNA molecules are more stable than RNA molecules in an alkaline medium, providing multiple options to choose from.
Answer
A: DNA contains deoxyribose instead of ribose. Thus, DNA is stable in alkaline medium.
The final answer is A: DNA contains deoxyribose instead of ribose. Thus, DNA is stable in alkaline medium.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is A: DNA contains deoxyribose instead of ribose. Thus, DNA is stable in alkaline medium.
More Information
DNA's stability in alkaline conditions is due to the absence of a hydroxyl group at the 2' position in its deoxyribose sugar, unlike RNA's ribose that has this group and is easily hydrolyzed.
Tips
A common mistake is not considering the structural aspect of the sugar in nucleotide stability.
Sources
- DNA vs. RNA – 5 Key Differences and Comparison - technologynetworks.com
- RNA is readily hydrolized by alkali, but DNA is not. Why? - Vaia - vaia.com
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