uracil

Uracil is a type of nitrogenous base found in RNA, a molecule essential for genetic information transfer in cells. It belongs to the pyrimidine family, pairing specifically with adenine during the process of making RNA. Unlike DNA, which contains thymine, RNA uses uracil instead. Uracil helps encode genetic information and participates in protein synthesis, playing a vital role in biological processes. Its chemical structure allows it to form hydrogen bonds with adenine, ensuring accurate copying and expression of genetic codes.