The significance of the Hershey and Chase experiments in which ³²P and ³⁵S were used is that A) DNA labeled with ³⁵S and proteins labeled with ³²P can be traced in the course of an experiment. B) they demonstrated that DNA labeled with ³²P is transferred from the bacteriophage to the virus. C) they established that proteins labeled with ³⁵S become deactivated and unable to be transferred. D) they demonstrated that bacteriophages transfer their DNA, not their protein coats, into their hosts. E) DNA may be the hereditary material; although, bacteriophages transfer both DNA and proteins into their hosts.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Hershey and Chase experiments showed that the bacteriophages transferred their DNA, not their protein coats, into their hosts. This supported the idea that DNA, not proteins, is the hereditary material. Choice A is partially correct but does not fully explain the significance of the experiments. Choice B is incorrect as it does not accurately depict the results of the experiments. Choice C is also incorrect as it does not relate to the main findings of the experiments. Choice E is partially correct, but does not accurately capture the conclusion that DNA is the hereditary material.

The Significance of the Hershey and Chase Experiments in Which