Answer:
A. It must store genetic information.
C. It must instruct cells to produce needed molecules.
D. It must copy itself.
Step-by-step explanation:
Deoxyribonucleic acid, commonly known as DNA, is the genetic material found in virtually all living organisms. It is the biological molecule that holds the genetic instructions needed for the synthesis of useful products (proteins).
DNA molecule must be able to perform the following tasks in a living organism to be considered the genetic material:
- It must store genetic information: DNA is the storage molecule for genetic information in living cells.
- It must instruct cells to produce needed molecules: DNA must be able to undergo gene expression where it directs the synthesis of the needed molecules like proteins, which it encodes.
- It must copy itself: DNA must be capable of replication i.e. must be able to produce two identical copies of itself.