Why is it believed that RNA was the first informational molecule to evolve?
A) RNA molecules can replicate into DNA molecules.
B) RNA molecules are more central to modern inheritance than DNA.
C) RNA molecules degrade more slowly in solution than DNA molecules.
D) RNA molecules are much simpler structures than other macromolecules.
E) RNA molecules are able to function as both enzymes and substrates for their own replication.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

RNA molecules have the unique ability to act as both catalysts (enzymes) and substrates for their own replication, which supports the RNA world hypothesis suggesting that RNA was the first informational molecule to evolve. This dual functionality could have allowed early RNA molecules to replicate and evolve without the need for proteins or DNA.

Why Is It Believed That RNA Was the First Informational