RNA and DNA are both nucleic acids, but they have some key differences:

1. Sugar:

* DNA: Contains deoxyribose sugar

* RNA: Contains ribose sugar (has an extra hydroxyl group)

2. Bases:

* DNA: Uses the bases adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), and thymine (T)

* RNA: Uses the bases adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), and uracil (U) - uracil replaces thymine

3. Structure:

* DNA: Typically double-stranded, forming a double helix

* RNA: Usually single-stranded, but can fold into complex 3D structures

4. Function:

* DNA: Stores genetic information and transmits it to offspring

* RNA: Involved in protein synthesis and other cellular processes

5. Stability:

* DNA: More stable than RNA due to the absence of the hydroxyl group on the deoxyribose sugar

* RNA: More susceptible to degradation, especially in alkaline conditions

Here's a table summarizing the differences:

| Feature | DNA | RNA |

|---|---|---|

| Sugar | Deoxyribose | Ribose |

| Bases | Adenine, guanine, cytosine, thymine | Adenine, guanine, cytosine, uracil |

| Structure | Double-stranded helix | Single-stranded, can fold into complex structures |

| Function | Stores genetic information | Involved in protein synthesis and other cellular processes |

| Stability | More stable | Less stable |

In addition to the above, there are several types of RNA with specific roles:

* mRNA (messenger RNA): Carries genetic information from DNA to ribosomes for protein synthesis.

* tRNA (transfer RNA): Transports amino acids to ribosomes for protein synthesis.

* rRNA (ribosomal RNA): Forms part of the ribosome, the site of protein synthesis.

These differences allow RNA to perform its diverse functions in the cell.