Question:

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

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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.
Updated On: Aug 19, 2026
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question is asking for the carbon atom count in the specific carbohydrate ring found within the structure of an RNA molecule.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Nucleotides are the building blocks of nucleic acids (RNA and DNA). They consist of three components: a nitrogenous base, a phosphate group, and a pentose sugar.
The prefix "pentose" specifically dictates that the sugar molecule contains exactly 5 carbon atoms.
In Ribonucleic Acid (RNA), the specific pentose sugar is $\beta$-D-ribose ($C_5H_{10}O_5$).

Step 3: Final Answer:

Since ribose is a pentose sugar, it has 5 carbon atoms. Option (b) is the correct answer.
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