Which of the following best describes the purpose of chromosomes in the nucleus of a cell?

To store the genetic instructions needed to specify traits.
To store the genetic instructions needed to specify traits.

To release energy by breaking down food molecules.
To release energy by breaking down food molecules.

To transport materials in and out of a cell.
To transport materials in and out of a cell.

To protect the cell.

The purpose of chromosomes in the nucleus of a cell is to store the genetic instructions needed to specify traits. To get this answer, we can use our knowledge of basic cell biology. Chromosomes are structures within the nucleus of a cell that contain DNA, the genetic material. DNA contains the instructions for building and functioning of an organism, including the traits it will have. So, the best description of the purpose of chromosomes is to store the genetic instructions needed to specify traits.