How does the sugar in DNA differ from the sugar in RNA?

The sugar in DNA is deoxyribose, while the sugar in RNA is ribose. This distinction is crucial because it impacts the stability and function of these molecules. Deoxyribose differs from ribose by having one less oxygen atom; specifically, it lacks an oxygen atom at the 2' carbon, which contributes to the stability of DNA's structure, making it less reactive compared to RNA. This stability is vital for DNA's role as the long-term storage of genetic information. In contrast, the presence of the extra hydroxyl group in ribose makes RNA more reactive and suitable for its various functions, including acting as a messenger (mRNA), a structural component (rRNA), and a catalyst (some types of RNA). Understanding the structural differences between these sugars gives insight into how DNA and RNA fulfill their respective roles in cellular processes.