Why is it that RNA can catalyze reactions but DNA cannot?
A) The sugar of RNA is much more reactive than the sugar of DNA.
B) The bases of RNA are much more reactive than the bases of DNA.
C) The phosphate groups of RNA are much more reactive than the phosphate groups of DNA.
D) The primary structure of RNA is fundamentally different than the primary structure of DNA.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sugar of RNA (ribose) contains a reactive hydroxyl group (-OH) on the 2' carbon, which can participate in catalytic reactions. In contrast, the sugar of DNA (deoxyribose) lacks this hydroxyl group, making it less reactive and unable to catalyze reactions.

Why Is It That RNA Can Catalyze Reactions but DNA