Short Answer

Nucleic acids are important biomolecules found in all living organisms. They are responsible for storing and transferring genetic information. Nucleic acids control how cells grow, function, and reproduce. Without nucleic acids, life cannot continue.

The two main types of nucleic acids are DNA and RNA. DNA stores hereditary information, while RNA helps in making proteins. Together, nucleic acids guide all life processes and ensure continuity of life from one generation to the next.

Detailed Explanation :

Meaning of Nucleic Acids

• Definition
  • Nucleic acids are complex biomolecules present in all living cells.
  • They carry genetic or hereditary information.
  • They control cellular activities and inheritance.
• Chemical nature
  • Nucleic acids are made of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and phosphorus.
  • They are acidic in nature due to the presence of phosphate group.
  • They are large molecules found mainly in the nucleus of cells.
• Basic unit
  • Nucleic acids are made up of smaller units called nucleotides.
  • Each nucleotide has three parts.
    • A nitrogenous base
    • A sugar molecule
    • A phosphate group
• Types of nitrogenous bases
  • Purines include adenine and guanine.
  • Pyrimidines include cytosine, thymine, and uracil.
  • These bases help in storing genetic information.

Types and Functions of Nucleic Acids

Nucleic acids are mainly of two types based on their structure and function. Each type plays a specific and essential role in living organisms.

Deoxyribonucleic Acid DNA

• Meaning
  • DNA stands for deoxyribonucleic acid.
  • It is the main genetic material in most organisms.
• Location
  • DNA is found mainly in the nucleus.
  • It is also present in mitochondria and chloroplasts.
• Structure
  • DNA has a double-stranded structure.
  • The strands form a double helix.
  • Sugar present is deoxyribose.
• Function
  • DNA stores hereditary information.
  • It controls all cellular activities.
  • It passes genetic traits from parents to offspring.
  • It provides instructions for protein synthesis.
• Importance
  • DNA maintains continuity of life.
  • Any change in DNA can cause variation or mutation.
  • Proper DNA function is essential for normal growth and development.

Ribonucleic Acid RNA

• Meaning
  • RNA stands for ribonucleic acid.
  • It helps in the expression of genetic information.
• Location
  • RNA is found in nucleus and cytoplasm.
  • It is present in ribosomes.
• Structure
  • RNA is single-stranded.
  • Sugar present is ribose.
  • Uracil replaces thymine.
• Types of RNA
  • Messenger RNA carries genetic message from DNA.
  • Transfer RNA brings amino acids for protein synthesis.
  • Ribosomal RNA forms ribosomes.
• Function
  • RNA helps in protein synthesis.
  • It converts genetic information into proteins.
  • Proteins formed control metabolism and structure.
• Importance
  • Without RNA, proteins cannot be made.
  • RNA links DNA and protein formation.

Role of Nucleic Acids in Life Processes

• Control of heredity
  • Nucleic acids store genetic information.
  • They ensure transfer of traits.
• Protein synthesis
  • DNA gives instructions.
  • RNA helps in building proteins.
  • Proteins carry out life functions.
• Cell division
  • DNA replicates before cell division.
  • This ensures identical genetic material.
• Metabolism regulation
  • Enzymes are proteins formed under DNA control.
  • Metabolic reactions depend on nucleic acids.

Importance of Nucleic Acids in Plants and Animals

• In plants
  • Control growth and development.
  • Regulate photosynthesis enzymes.
  • Help in reproduction.
• In animals
  • Control body structure.
  • Regulate metabolism.
  • Support growth and repair.

Health and medical importance

• Genetic disorders
  • Errors in nucleic acids cause diseases.
  • Example includes genetic defects.
• Biotechnology
  • DNA is used in genetic engineering.
  • Helps in disease diagnosis and treatment.
• Research importance
  • Nucleic acids are studied in molecular biology.
  • They help understand life at molecular level.

Conclusion

Nucleic acids are vital biomolecules that store and transfer genetic information in living organisms. DNA carries hereditary instructions, while RNA helps in protein synthesis. Together, they control growth, metabolism, reproduction, and inheritance. Without nucleic acids, life processes cannot occur, and continuity of life would not be possible. Thus, nucleic acids form the molecular basis of life.