Question

Indirect evidence that DNA is the genetic material in eukaryotes: The molecule serving as the genetic material is expected to absorb at the wavelengths (λ) shown to be mutagenic. ______ is more mutagenic at 260 nm, DNA and RNA absorb at 260 whereas protein absorbs at 280 nm.

A) RNA
B) DNA
C) Proteins
D) Nucleotides

Answer 1

The indirect evidence for DNA as the genetic material in eukaryotes is its absorption at 260 nm, which is mutagenic, as opposed to proteins which absorb at 280 nm.

Therefore, the answer is B) DNA.

Step-by-step explanation:

Indirect evidence that DNA is the genetic material in eukaryotes is that the molecule serving as the genetic material is expected to absorb at the wavelengths (λ) which are known to be mutagenic. DNA is more mutagenic at 260 nm, and it is known that both DNA and RNA absorb at 260 nm, whereas proteins absorb at 280 nm.

Experiments conducted by Martha Chase and Alfred Hershey in 1952 provided confirmatory evidence that DNA was the genetic material. They labeled viral DNA with radioactive phosphorus, since phosphorus is found in DNA but not in proteins, thus tagging the DNA and not the protein. Additionally, DNA is known for its critical role in heredity and contains the genetic instructions for the development and function of living organisms.

Thus, the correct option is B) DNA.