1. What is RNA Molecular Weight?

RNA molecular weight is the sum of atomic weights of all atoms in an RNA molecule. It's crucial for laboratory techniques like gel electrophoresis, transfection, and quantitative PCR.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• \( n_i \) — Number of each nucleotide type
• \( MW_i \) — Molecular weight of each nucleotide (A=329.2, U=306.2, C=305.2, G=345.2 g/mol)
• 159.0 — Molecular weight of 5' monophosphate

Explanation: The calculation sums the weights of all nucleotides plus the 5' monophosphate that's present in synthesized RNA.

3. Importance of RNA Molecular Weight

Details: Knowing the molecular weight is essential for:

• Calculating molar concentrations
• Determining migration in gel electrophoresis
• Proper dilution for experiments
• Calculating copy numbers in quantitative studies

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Enter RNA sequence in 5' to 3' direction
• Only standard nucleotides (A, U, C, G) are accepted
• Sequence is case-insensitive
• Modifications are not accounted for in this calculator

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is there a +159.0 in the formula?
A: This accounts for the 5' monophosphate group that remains after RNA synthesis.

Q2: Does this work for modified nucleotides?
A: No, this calculator only handles standard A, U, C, G nucleotides.

Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides theoretical molecular weight based on nucleotide composition. Actual experimental values may vary slightly.

Q4: What about RNA secondary structure?
A: Secondary structure doesn't affect molecular weight calculations.

Q5: Can I calculate molarity from this?
A: Yes, using the formula: molarity (M) = mass (g) / (MW (g/mol) × volume (L)).