Hershey and Chase used a DNA-based virus for their work. How might the results have been different if they had used an RNA virus?
A) With an RNA virus, radioactive protein would have been in the final pellet.
B) With an RNA virus, radioactive RNA would have been in the final pellet.
C) With an RNA virus, neither sample would have had a radioactive pellet.
D) With an RNA virus, the protein shell would have been radioactive in both samples.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hershey and Chase used a bacteriophage that has DNA as its genetic material. If they had used an RNA virus, that virus's genetic material would have been RNA, not DNA. Since RNA is not transcribed into DNA, the radioactive sulfur would not have been incorporated into the genetic material. Therefore, in this case, the radioactive material would have been found in the protein or RNA component of the virus. Choice A is incorrect because radioactive protein would not have been present in the final pellet in this case. Choice C is incorrect because one of the samples would still have been radioactive. Choice D is incorrect because the protein shell would not have been radioactive in both samples.

Hershey and Chase Used a DNA-Based Virus for Their Work