As life was first evolving,what molecule is thought to have performed double duty as the genetic material and performing catalysis of chemical reactions?
A)RNA
B)proteins
C)polypeptides
D)DNA
E)both proteins and polypeptides

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

RNA is believed to have been the first genetic material as well as the first biocatalyst, performing enzymatic functions. This idea is supported by the fact that some RNA molecules, called ribozymes, are capable of catalyzing chemical reactions. Proteins and polypeptides likely evolved later and played roles in enzymatic functions as well, but RNA was likely the first molecule to perform both genetic and catalytic functions. DNA is primarily a genetic material, and while it may play some enzymatic roles, it is not known to have significant catalytic activity on its own.

As Life Was First Evolving,what Molecule Is Thought to Have