In the early 20th century, some scientists were reluctant to accept the conclusion that DNA could be the genetic material because it is so_________________.
In order to determine why some scientists in the early 20th century were reluctant to accept the conclusion that DNA could be the genetic material, we can look at the characteristics of DNA that might have led to this skepticism.
The word provided in the question is "_________________," which is unfinished. However, I can provide explanations for different characteristics of DNA that might have caused skepticism among scientists.
1. Inaccessible: One reason could be that DNA was not easily accessible for study during that time. Extracting DNA and analyzing its structure was a complex and challenging process that required advanced technology. The lack of techniques and tools to manipulate DNA might have made it difficult to accept it as the genetic material.
2. Simplicity: Another reason might be that DNA was initially thought to be a simple molecule. When scientists first started exploring genetics, they believed that a complex structure like protein would be more suitable as the genetic material due to its diverse chemical composition. DNA, on the other hand, seemed relatively simple with its repeating subunit structure, consisting of nucleotides. Hence, scientists were skeptical about such a seemingly simple molecule carrying the complex genetic information.
3. Lack of understanding about its functions: The functions and mechanisms of DNA were not completely understood during the early 20th century. The scientific community had limited knowledge about DNA's role in inheritance and genetic traits. The lack of knowledge about the biochemical processes and molecular mechanisms associated with DNA might have made some scientists question its candidacy as the genetic material.
4. Preexisting theories: Prior to the discovery of DNA as the genetic material, several theories existed proposing other substances to be responsible for inheritance. Examples include proteins, lipids, and even the cytoplasm of cells. These theories had gained some acceptance and may have created resistance to accepting DNA as the genetic material.
It is important to note that the skepticism surrounding DNA gradually diminished as scientists conducted more experiments and investigations, leading to evidence and confirmation of DNA as the genetic material.