Which option describes DNA as a double-stranded, helical nucleic acid molecule capable of replicating and determining the inherited structure of a cell's proteins?

Which option describes DNA as a double-stranded, helical nucleic acid molecule capable of replicating and determining the inherited structure of a cell's proteins?

• A. A single-stranded RNA molecule
• B. A lipid-based molecule storing energy
• C. A double-stranded, helical nucleic acid molecule capable of replicating and determining the inherited structure of a cell's proteins
• D. A protein that carries genetic information

Answer: (C)

DNA stores genetic information and passes it on to offspring through replication, while directing the production of cellular proteins. Its defining form is a double-stranded, helical nucleic acid whose sequence encodes genes. During replication, the two strands separate and serve as templates for new strands, ensuring faithful copying of genetic material. The information in DNA is used to make proteins via transcription and translation, shaping the inherited structure and function of the cell’s proteins. This description matches DNA’s essential roles and structure exactly. The other options describe molecules that don’t fit: RNA is usually single-stranded, lipids store energy, and proteins do not carry genetic information.

DNA stores genetic information and passes it on to offspring through replication, while directing the production of cellular proteins. Its defining form is a double-stranded, helical nucleic acid whose sequence encodes genes. During replication, the two strands separate and serve as templates for new strands, ensuring faithful copying of genetic material. The information in DNA is used to make proteins via transcription and translation, shaping the inherited structure and function of the cell’s proteins. This description matches DNA’s essential roles and structure exactly. The other options describe molecules that don’t fit: RNA is usually single-stranded, lipids store energy, and proteins do not carry genetic information.