Question

Which of the following supports the RNA world hypothesis?

• A. RNA has ability to store genetic information.
• B. RNA has ability to duplicate itself.
• C. RNA has ability to catalyse reaction.
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

All of the above

RNA world hypothesis was given by Carl Woese, Francis Crick and Leslie Orgel in the 1960s before the discovery of DNA. This hypothesis states that earlier forms of life relied solely on RNA to store genetic information, duplicate itself and to catalyze chemical reactions. Hence life on earth began with simple RNA molecule. It further states that life evolved to use DNA and proteins due to the relative instability of RNA and poorer catalytic properties. Thus the correct answer is option d.