RNA molecules can have tertiary and quaternary structure, whereas DNA molecules

Question

RNA molecules can have tertiary and quaternary structure, whereas DNA molecules do not. Which statement best explains why?

A) RNA's secondary structure can leave bases free for interactions that produce tertiary and quaternary structure; DNA's secondary structure does not.
B) RNA has an extra oxygen atom in its backbone, which makes RNA much less stable than DNA.
C) RNA has secondary structure but DNA does not, so only RNA can have tertiary and quaternary structure.
D) RNA contains uracil (U) whereas DNA contains thymine (T), so only RNA can have tertiary and quaternary structure.

Explanation / Answer

RNA (ribonucleic acid) has the ability to form secondary structures. They can leave nucleotide bases free for interactions. These interactions produce tertiary and quaternary structures; whereas DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) cannot form secondary structures.

Hence, the correct option is (c).

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