Question: 96. Given below are two statements:
Statement I: In the RNA world, RNA is considered the first genetic material evolved to carry out essential life processes. RNA acts as a genetic material and also as a catalyst for some important biochemical reactions in living systems. Being reactive, RNA is unstable.
Statement II: DNA evolved from RNA and is a more stable genetic material. Its double helical strands being complementary, resist changes by evolving repairing mechanism.
In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:
(1) Both statement I and statement II are correct
(2) Both statement I and statement II are incorrect
(3) Statement I is correct but statement II is incorrect
(4) Statement I is incorrect but statement II is correct
Answer: Option (1)
Explanation:
The RNA world hypothesis proposes that RNA was the first genetic material in early life forms.
RNA is capable of storing genetic information and also acts as a catalyst, as seen in ribozymes.
Due to the presence of the hydroxyl group, RNA is chemically reactive and relatively unstable.
DNA evolved later from RNA and became the primary genetic material in most organisms.
DNA is more stable due to its double helical structure and complementary base pairing.
The complementary strands help in accurate replication and enable repair mechanisms to correct errors.
Therefore, both Statement I and Statement II are correct.