The total number of correct statements regarding the nucleic acids is: A. RNA is regarded as the reserve of genetic information. B. DNA molecule self-duplicates during cell division. C. DNA synthesizes proteins in the cell. D. The message for the synthesis of particular proteins is present in DNA. E. Identical DNA strands are transferred to daughter cells.
Correct answer:A
Standard Method
Given: Statements A to E about nucleic acids are given.
Find: The total number of correct statements.
Evaluate each statement using basic molecular biology.
Statement A: RNA is regarded as the reserve of genetic information. This is false. DNA is the primary reservoir of genetic information, while RNA mainly functions in protein synthesis.
Statement B: DNA molecule self-duplicates during cell division. This is true. DNA replication occurs before cell division so that genetic information can be passed on.
Statement C: DNA synthesizes proteins in the cell. This is false. DNA stores information and serves as a template for RNA formation; protein synthesis occurs through the translation machinery, not by DNA itself.
Statement D: The message for the synthesis of particular proteins is present in DNA. This is true. Genes in DNA contain the information required for protein synthesis.
Statement E: Identical DNA strands are transferred to daughter cells. This is true. Replication ensures that daughter cells receive identical genetic information.
Therefore, the correct statements are B, D, and E.
So, the total number of correct statements is .
Hence, the correct option is A.
The solution explicitly concludes that the number of correct statements is , which matches option A.
Statement-wise Evaluation
Given: Five statements regarding nucleic acids.
Find: How many of them are correct.
Use the central idea:
From this:
Now check each statement:
Thus, the number of correct statements is .
Therefore, the correct option is A.
Mistake: Treating RNA as the main store of genetic information in normal cells. Why it is wrong: In standard molecular biology, DNA is the principal genetic material in cells. What to do instead: Distinguish between information storage by DNA and functional roles of RNA in expression.
Mistake: Assuming DNA directly synthesizes proteins. Why it is wrong: Protein synthesis occurs through transcription and translation, with ribosomes and RNA molecules involved in the actual process. What to do instead: Remember the central dogma: DNA provides the code, RNA carries it, and proteins are synthesized during translation.
Mistake: Confusing DNA replication with random transfer of strands to daughter cells. Why it is wrong: Replication ensures faithful duplication so that daughter cells receive identical genetic information. What to do instead: Link cell division with prior DNA replication and equal distribution of replicated DNA.
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