Definition of Uracil

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Uracil is one of the four nitrogenous bases that make up the molecule of ribonucleic acid (RNA). They are exclusive to the RNA molecule as thymine is to the DNA. The other three chemical bases are adenine, cytosine and guanine that are the part of RNA. Uracil is generally a colorless, crystalline compound that is organic in nature. It is composed of a single ring and hence belongs to the pyrimidine family.

 

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The structure of RNA has a backbone that is made up of ribose sugar and phosphate groups. The nitrogenous bases are attached to these sugar molecules. This leads to the stability of the RNA molecule. During the process of transcription, these uracil pairs with adenine and guanine with cytosine.

 

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