How does DNA carry information for specifying the traits of an organism?

• A. By storing energy in the form of high-energy phosphate bonds
• B. By catalyzing metabolic reactions within the cell
• C. By encoding genetic instructions in the sequence of its nucleotide bases
• D. By directly synthesizing proteins without any intermediates

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that DNA is the molecule responsible for storing genetic information in living organisms. It carries instructions for the development, functioning, and reproduction of cells.
2. Recognize that DNA is composed of nucleotide bases: adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G). These bases are arranged in a specific sequence along the DNA strand.
3. Learn that the sequence of nucleotide bases in DNA forms a code, which is used to specify the amino acid sequence of proteins. This code is referred to as the genetic code.
4. Understand that the process of encoding genetic instructions involves transcription and translation. During transcription, the DNA sequence is copied into messenger RNA (mRNA). During translation, the mRNA is used as a template to assemble proteins with the help of ribosomes and transfer RNA (tRNA).
5. Recognize that the traits of an organism are determined by the proteins produced, as proteins play critical roles in cellular structure, function, and regulation. The sequence of nucleotide bases in DNA ultimately dictates the traits by encoding the instructions for protein synthesis.