Biology
Confusing DNA and RNA
Mixing up which nucleic acid is double-stranded and which bases each one uses.
Quick check
Why students make it
The two are closely related nucleic acids with similar bases, so their differences blur.
The rule done right
DNA is double-stranded, uses the sugar deoxyribose, and uses thymine. RNA is single-stranded, uses ribose, and uses uracil in place of thymine.
Related resources
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Biology: Nucleic Acids Infographic -
DNA to RNA to Protein Infographic -
Biology: The Genetic Code and Codon Table Infographic -
Biology: DNA Replication Infographic -
Biology: tRNA and the Adapter Molecule Infographic - DNA, RNA & Protein Synthesis Cheat Sheet
- DNA Replication Step-by-Step Cheat Sheet
- Genetics & Mendelian Inheritance Cheat Sheet
- Science: DNA Structure and Protein Synthesis Worksheet
- Biology: Genetics: Transcription and Translation Worksheet
- Biology: Genetics: DNA Replication and Repair Worksheet
- Biology: Biochemistry: Carbohydrates, Proteins, Lipids, Nucleic Acids Worksheet
- DNA/RNA Codon Translator Tool
- DNA Sequence Explorer Tool
- DNA Replication Animator Tool
- Gene Expression Explorer Tool
- Plasmid & Selectable Marker Explorer Tool
- DNA to Protein & Mutation Lab Lab
- Molecular Evolution Lab Lab
- Gene Regulation Lab Lab