Which molecule carries genetic information in most organisms?

• A. RNA
• B. Protein
• C. DNA
• D. Lipid

Answer: (C)

DNA stores the hereditary information in most organisms because its structure and chemistry are built for stable, long-term storage and accurate transmission of genetic data. The sequence of nucleotides encodes genes, and the double-helix arrangement with complementary base pairing allows precise copying during replication, so genetic information is reliably passed to new cells and offspring. This information is read to produce RNA and, in turn, proteins, via transcription and translation, linking the genetic code to cellular function. RNA can carry genetic information in some viruses, and proteins are essential executors of traits, but they are not the stable heritable material in the vast majority of organisms, and lipids do not store genetic information. Therefore, DNA is the primary genetic material in most living things.