Adenine (A)
Definition
Adenine is one of the four nitrogenous bases found in DNA and RNA molecules. In DNA, it pairs with thymine (T), while in RNA it pairs with uracil (U).
Analogy
Imagine adenine as one half of a zipper on your jacket - it can only connect properly if matched with its correct partner - thymine or uracil.
Related terms
Thymine (T): The nitrogenous base that pairs with adenine in DNA.
Uracil (U): The nitrogenous base that replaces thymine in RNA and pairs with adenine.
Base Pairing Rule: The rule stating that cytosine pairs with guanine and adenine pairs with thymine or uracil depending on whether the molecule is DNA or RNA.
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