A1.2.5 RNA as a polymer formed by condensation of nucleotide monomers Flashcards
What distinguishes RNA from DNA at the molecular level?
RNA has a hydroxyl (-OH) group on the 2’ carbon of ribose, while DNA has hydrogen at this position.
What is the directionality of RNA polymerization?
RNA polymerization occurs from the 5’ end to the 3’ end.
What happens to water molecules during RNA polymerization?
Water molecules are released during each condensation reaction.
What is the range of lengths for RNA molecules?
RNA can range from very short (like tRNA) to very long (like mRNA) sequences.
What is the significance of the 3’ hydroxyl and 5’ phosphate groups in RNA formation?
They are involved in the formation of the phosphodiester bond between nucleotides.
What type of bond forms between two RNA nucleotides during polymerization?
A phosphodiester bond.
What are the three components of an RNA nucleotide?
Ribose sugar, nitrogenous base (A, U, G, C), and phosphate group.
What are the four nitrogenous bases found in RNA?
Adenine (A), Uracil (U), Guanine (G), and Cytosine (C).
What is the typical structure of RNA?
RNA is primarily single-stranded.
How does RNA differ from DNA in terms of structure?
RNA is more flexible and can fold into various shapes, unlike DNA’s rigid double helix.
What is the role of RNA in biological processes?
RNA is essential for protein synthesis and gene regulation.
What is hydrolysis in the context of RNA?
Hydrolysis is the reverse process of condensation, breaking down RNA polymers and consuming water.
Why is the release of water molecules during RNA formation energetically favorable?
It makes the polymerization process favorable under cellular conditions.
What is released during the condensation reaction that forms RNA polymers?
A water molecule.
