What distinguishes the hydrolysis of nucleotides in RNA from DNA?

The distinction in the hydrolysis of nucleotides in RNA compared to DNA primarily revolves around the structural differences between RNA and DNA, particularly the presence of the hydroxyl group at the 2' position of the ribose sugar in RNA. This 2' hydroxyl group in RNA makes it more reactive and prone to hydrolysis, especially in basic conditions.

When RNA is exposed to alkaline conditions, the hydroxyl group can facilitate a nucleophilic attack on the phosphate group, leading to cleavage of the phosphodiester bond and ultimately resulting in the breakdown of the RNA molecule. In contrast, DNA lacks this 2' hydroxyl group due to the presence of a 2' deoxy position, which significantly reduces its reactivity and makes it more stable under similar conditions. This structural difference is what allows RNA to hydrolyze more readily than DNA, making choice B the correct answer.