1. What is RNA Molecular Weight?

The molecular weight of an RNA molecule is the sum of the atomic weights of all its constituent atoms. It's calculated based on the nucleotide composition and any modifications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the RNA molecular weight formula:

Where:

• \( A \) — Adenine count
• \( U \) — Uracil count
• \( C \) — Cytosine count
• \( G \) — Guanine count
• \( adj \) — Adjustment for modifications
• 329.2, 306.2, 305.2, 345.2 — Molecular weights of nucleotides
• 61.0 — Adjustment for water loss during polymerization

3. Importance of RNA MW Calculation

Details: Knowing RNA molecular weight is essential for experimental design, including gel electrophoresis, transfection, and quantification.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter counts for each nucleotide and any adjustment value for modifications. All counts must be non-negative integers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why subtract 61.0 in the formula?
A: This accounts for the loss of water molecules during the polymerization of nucleotides.

Q2: How to account for modified nucleotides?
A: Use the adjustment field to add the molecular weight difference caused by modifications.

Q3: Does this work for single-stranded and double-stranded RNA?
A: This calculates single-stranded RNA. For dsRNA, multiply by 2 and subtract appropriate hybridization adjustment.

Q4: What units are used?
A: The result is in Daltons (Da), equivalent to g/mol.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides theoretical molecular weight. Actual experimental values may vary slightly.