What is the typical structure of RNA?

What is the typical structure of RNA?

• A. Single Strand
• B. Double Helix
• C. Triple Helix
• D. Circular

Answer: (A)

RNA is typically a single-stranded molecule. This linear chain of ribonucleotides can fold back on itself, using base pairing (A with U, G with C) to create stems, loops, and other secondary structures. That folding enables a wide variety of shapes and functions, from carrying genetic information to catalyzing chemical reactions in some cases. In contrast, DNA is the classic double helix, so a double-stranded form isn’t the norm for RNA. While there are exceptions—some RNAs can be circular or form localized double-stranded regions—the common, most typical form is a single strand.

RNA is typically a single-stranded molecule. This linear chain of ribonucleotides can fold back on itself, using base pairing (A with U, G with C) to create stems, loops, and other secondary structures. That folding enables a wide variety of shapes and functions, from carrying genetic information to catalyzing chemical reactions in some cases. In contrast, DNA is the classic double helix, so a double-stranded form isn’t the norm for RNA. While there are exceptions—some RNAs can be circular or form localized double-stranded regions—the common, most typical form is a single strand.