RNA mutates faster than DNA because

Options

A. RNA is more stable
B. RNA is unstable
C. RNA is noncatalytic
D. RNA is less reactive

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks why RNA mutates faster than DNA. To answer this, we need to analyze the properties of RNA and DNA that contribute to their mutation rates.

2. **Comparing Stability**: The first point to consider is the stability of RNA compared to DNA. RNA is generally less stable than DNA. This instability is a key factor in its higher mutation rate.

3. **Structural Differences**: RNA has a different structure than DNA. While DNA is a double-stranded molecule with a stable helical structure, RNA is usually single-stranded and has a more flexible structure. This structural difference contributes to the instability of RNA.

4. **Chemical Composition**: The chemical composition of RNA includes a ribose sugar, which has a hydroxyl (OH) group at the 2' position. This 2' OH group makes RNA more susceptible to hydrolysis (breakdown by water) and other chemical reactions, leading to increased reactivity.

5. **Reactivity and Mutation Rate**: Because RNA is more chemically reactive due to the presence of the 2' OH group, it is more prone to mutations. The higher reactivity means that RNA can undergo changes more readily than DNA, which is more chemically stable.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the correct answer to the question is that RNA mutates faster than DNA because RNA is unstable, not because it is stable. The instability is due to both its structural and chemical properties.

**Final Answer**: RNA mutates faster than DNA because RNA is unstable.

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