What is a significant structural difference between DNA and RNA?

The significant structural difference between DNA and RNA lies in the type of sugar present in each molecule. RNA contains ribose sugar, while DNA contains deoxyribose sugar. The presence of an oxygen atom in the ribose sugar (at the 2' carbon) differentiates it from deoxyribose, which lacks this oxygen. This structural distinction is vital as it influences the overall stability and function of the nucleic acids.

Ribose makes RNA more reactive and typically less stable than DNA, which is essential for its role in protein synthesis and other cellular processes. In contrast, the deoxyribose in DNA contributes to its stability, allowing it to serve as a long-term storage form of genetic information. This fundamental difference is crucial for understanding the biological roles and behaviors of these two types of nucleic acids.