Do both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells contain DNA as their genetic material?

• A. No; only prokaryotic cells have DNA, while eukaryotic cells store genetic information only as proteins.
• B. Yes; both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells have DNA.
• C. Only eukaryotic cells have DNA in the nucleus; prokaryotic cells lack DNA entirely.
• D. No; only eukaryotic cells have DNA, while prokaryotic cells use RNA as genetic material.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the basic cellular biology concepts: Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells are two major types of cells that differ in structure and complexity.
2. Recall that DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is the molecule that stores genetic information in almost all living organisms, serving as the blueprint for cellular functions.
3. Recognize that prokaryotic cells, which lack a nucleus, contain DNA typically organized in a single circular chromosome located in the nucleoid region.
4. Know that eukaryotic cells have a defined nucleus where their DNA is enclosed within chromosomes, along with additional DNA found in organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts.
5. Conclude that both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells contain DNA as their genetic material, making the statement 'Yes; both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells have DNA' the correct answer.