What is the shape of rna?

RNA, or ribonucleic acid, is a single-stranded molecule that is typically shaped like a twisted ladder. This shape is known as a helix, similar to the double helix structure of DNA. RNA can fold into complex three-dimensional shapes due to its ability to form base pairs within its own sequence, leading to the formation of secondary structures such as loops, hairpin loops, and stems.

The primary structure of RNA is made up of a sequence of nucleotides, which are composed of a ribose sugar, a phosphate group, and one of four nitrogenous bases (adenine, cytosine, guanine, or uracil). These nucleotides are linked together by phosphodiester bonds to form a linear chain.

In addition to its helical structure, RNA can also adopt other conformations such as bulges, junctions, and pseudoknots, which allow it to interact with other molecules and perform a variety of functions within the cell. The shape of RNA is crucial for its role in gene expression, protein synthesis, and regulation of cellular processes.