Which molecule is primarily responsible for the long-term storage of genetic information in cells?

• A. DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid)
• B. ATP (adenosine triphosphate)
• C. Protein
• D. RNA (ribonucleic acid)

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of each molecule listed in the options: DNA, ATP, Protein, and RNA. DNA is known for storing genetic information, ATP is an energy carrier, proteins perform various cellular functions, and RNA is involved in protein synthesis and sometimes acts as a temporary genetic messenger.
2. Recall that long-term storage of genetic information requires a stable molecule that can be passed down through generations without significant degradation or alteration.
3. Consider the structure of DNA: It is a double-stranded molecule with a stable backbone made of sugar and phosphate groups, and nitrogenous bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine) that encode genetic information.
4. Compare DNA to RNA: RNA is single-stranded and less stable than DNA, making it unsuitable for long-term genetic storage. RNA is primarily involved in short-term processes like transcription and translation.
5. Conclude that DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is the molecule responsible for the long-term storage of genetic information in cells, as it is specifically designed to preserve and transmit genetic instructions over time.