In evolutionary terms, RNA is thought to have preceded proteins and DNA. Which of the following provides the most convincing support for this hypothesis?
a. there are more types of RNA than there are of DNA
b. RNA can both store genetic information and act as an enzyme
c. single stranded RNA is less structurally complex than double stranded DNA
d. viruses containing protein are among the oldest forms of life
B?
YES, B is the correct answer
Yes, option B provides the most convincing support for the hypothesis that RNA preceded proteins and DNA in evolutionary terms. RNA is capable of both storing genetic information and acting as an enzyme, suggesting that it could have performed both functions in early life forms. This supports the idea that RNA may have played a critical role in the origin and early evolution of life.
Yes, you are correct, option b provides the most convincing support for the hypothesis that RNA preceded proteins and DNA in evolution.
RNA is capable of both storing genetic information, similar to DNA, as well as acting as a catalyst or enzyme, similar to proteins. This dual functionality suggests that RNA may have played a crucial role in the early stages of life's evolution.
To arrive at this answer, you need to understand the characteristics and functions of RNA, proteins, and DNA. By comparing the properties of these molecules, you can analyze which option provides the strongest evidence for RNA preceding proteins and DNA. In this case, option b stands out because it highlights the unique ability of RNA to perform both genetic storage and enzymatic functions, which makes it a more likely precursor to proteins and DNA.