How does DNA determine a trait such as eye color in an organism?

• A. DNA directly changes the color of the eyes through chemical reactions.
• B. DNA determines eye color by altering the organism's environment.
• C. DNA contains genes that encode proteins influencing eye color.
• D. DNA stores energy that is used to change eye color.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that DNA is the molecule that carries genetic information in living organisms. It is composed of sequences of nucleotides, which form genes.
2. Recognize that genes are specific sequences of DNA that encode instructions for making proteins. These proteins can influence various traits, including eye color.
3. Learn that the process of gene expression involves two main steps: transcription and translation. During transcription, a gene's DNA sequence is copied into messenger RNA (mRNA).
4. During translation, the mRNA is used as a template to assemble amino acids into a protein. The sequence of amino acids determines the protein's structure and function.
5. Understand that proteins can affect traits by interacting with other molecules in the body. For eye color, specific proteins produced by genes can influence the production and distribution of pigments in the iris, leading to different eye colors.