Question

What is the total number of carbon atoms present in a sugar molecule of RNA nucleotide?

• A. 6
• B. 5
• C. 4
• D. 12

Hint:

Both RNA and DNA backbones utilize 5-carbon (pentose) sugars. DNA contains deoxyribose (lacking an oxygen at the 2' position), while RNA contains standard ribose.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The sugar in RNA is ribose, which is classified as a pentose sugar.

Step 2: Formula Application:
Chemical formula of ribose: $C_5H_{10}O_5$.

Step 3: Explanation:
Ribose is a 5-carbon monosaccharide. In an RNA nucleotide, four carbons are part of the furanose ring structure, and the fifth carbon is part of the $CH_2OH$ group attached to the ring.

Step 4: Final Answer:
The total number of carbon atoms is 5.