RNA is really important for making proteins. Here are some key points about its structure:

1. Single-stranded shape: Unlike DNA, which has two strands, RNA is single-stranded. This allows RNA to fold into different shapes. These shapes help it connect with ribosomes and other molecules.

2. Parts of RNA: RNA is made up of three main parts:

   • Ribose sugar
   • Phosphate
   • Nitrogen bases (which are adenine, uracil, cytosine, and guanine).

   RNA uses uracil instead of thymine, which helps it stay stable and pair up well during the process of making proteins.

3. Different types of RNA:

   • mRNA (messenger RNA): This type carries information from DNA to ribosomes. It's usually about 1,000 to 10,000 building blocks long.
   • tRNA (transfer RNA): This one brings amino acids to the ribosome. It’s shorter, around 76 to 90 building blocks long, and has a special clover shape to help attach the amino acids.
   • rRNA (ribosomal RNA): This type is a big part of ribosomes and helps in making proteins. It makes up about 60% of a ribosome's weight.

These features of RNA help it do its important job effectively when proteins are being made.