Which option lists the three main functions of DNA?

Which option lists the three main functions of DNA?

• A. Codes for lipids; stores carbohydrates; forms membranes.
• B. Stores energy; transmits signals; catalyzes reactions.
• C. Provides genetic instructions for making proteins; Allows cellular replication; Dictates development and functioning of the organism.
• D. Participates in photosynthesis; stores minerals; structures the cell.

Answer: (C)

DNA’s function centers on information. It stores genetic instructions that determine which proteins a cell makes, it is copied so this information can be passed to new cells during division, and it governs how an organism grows and functions by controlling when and where genes are expressed. The statement that best captures this is that DNA provides genetic instructions for making proteins, allows cellular replication, and dictates development and functioning of the organism. Proteins carry out most cellular tasks, so the encoded instructions directly shape structure and activity. Copying DNA before cell division ensures daughter cells inherit the complete set of instructions. Gene expression patterns then drive development, physiology, and responses to the environment by regulating which proteins are produced and when. Other descriptions refer to roles of lipids, energy carriers, signaling molecules, or processes like photosynthesis, which involve many different molecules and pathways and are not direct functions of DNA itself.

DNA’s function centers on information. It stores genetic instructions that determine which proteins a cell makes, it is copied so this information can be passed to new cells during division, and it governs how an organism grows and functions by controlling when and where genes are expressed.

The statement that best captures this is that DNA provides genetic instructions for making proteins, allows cellular replication, and dictates development and functioning of the organism. Proteins carry out most cellular tasks, so the encoded instructions directly shape structure and activity. Copying DNA before cell division ensures daughter cells inherit the complete set of instructions. Gene expression patterns then drive development, physiology, and responses to the environment by regulating which proteins are produced and when.

Other descriptions refer to roles of lipids, energy carriers, signaling molecules, or processes like photosynthesis, which involve many different molecules and pathways and are not direct functions of DNA itself.