Final answer:
The mitochondrial genome is composed of double-stranded DNA, which is distinct from the variable structures found in viral genomes. Mitochondrial DNA is inherited from the mother and is used in energy production within cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mitochondria genome contains double-stranded DNA. This is in contrast to the structure of most viral genomes, which show extensive variation and may be composed of either RNA or DNA, and may be either double or single-stranded. In contrast to viruses based on the Baltimore classification scheme that may have a single-stranded RNA (-) genome, the DNA in mitochondria is double-stranded and is crucial for the production of energy within eukaryotic cells. Moreover, mitochondrial DNA is inherited maternally and can be used in tracing genealogy. It is important to note that DNA is double stranded whereas RNA is usually single stranded, and these nucleic acids contain different sugars, deoxyribose for DNA and ribose for RNA.