Scientists may be on the verge of creating life in a test tube. Recently, scientists have used computers to synthesize a highly complex loop of DNA. When this loop was inserted into an empty bacterial cell, the cell began to self-replicate. And self-replication is an essential feature of life.
A) Argument; conclusion: When this loop was inserted ... began to self-replicate.
B) Argument; conclusion: Recently, scientists have used computers ... loop of DNA.
C) Nonargument.
D) Argument; conclusion: Scientists may be on the verge ... life in a test tube.
E) Argument; conclusion: And self-replication is an essential feature of life.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The passage presents an argument that scientists may be close to creating life in a test tube based on the recent development of synthesizing complex DNA loops and inserting them into empty bacterial cells, resulting in self-replication. This argument is supported by the evidence presented and the conclusion is drawn based on the implications of this development.

Scientists May Be on the Verge of Creating Life in a Test