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Biology Question 96 – NEET-UG 2025

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Given below are two statements : Statement I : In the RNA world, RNA is considered the first genetic material evolved to carry out essential life processes. RNA acts as a genetic material and also as a catalyst for some important biochemical reactions in living systems. Being reactive, RNA is unstable. Statement II : DNA evolved from RNA and is a more stable genetic material. Its double helical strands being complementary, resist changes by evolving repairing mechanism. In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below :

Recall the key features and roles of RNA in early life forms, including its dual function as genetic material and catalyst.

Step 1: Evaluate Statement I✦ Active

Statement I claims that RNA was the first genetic material (RNA world hypothesis), acts as both genetic material and catalyst (ribozymes), and is unstable due to its reactivity. All these points are consistent with current biological understanding. RNA's 2'-hydroxyl group makes it more reactive and less stable than DNA. Therefore, Statement I is correct.

Step 2: Evaluate Statement II○ Expand

Statement II asserts that DNA evolved from RNA and is a more stable genetic material. This is correct; DNA's deoxyribose sugar (lacking the 2'-hydroxyl group) and double-stranded structure contribute to its greater stability. It also states that its complementary double helical strands resist changes by evolving repairing mechanisms, which is a key advantage of DNA as a stable genetic repository. Therefore, Statement II is correct.

Step 3: Determine the Correct Option○ Expand

Since both Statement I and Statement II are correct, the most appropriate answer is the option that states both are correct.

💡 Teacher's Secret Hint

Remember that the RNA world hypothesis is a widely accepted theory explaining the origin of life and the evolution of genetic material.

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