A scientist is attempting to provide support for the hypothesis that RNA was the first genetic material. Which of the following would be a workable alternate hypothesis? (A) RNA, like DNA, is a carrier of genetic information and contains the nitrogen bases adenine, guanine, and cytosine.
(B) RNA can be observed to self-replicate without the assistance of proteins, while DNA always requires protein-based enzymes to replicate.
(C) RNA exists in both single-stranded and double-stranded configurations; however, it is less stable compared with DNA.
(D) Transfer RNA and ribosomal RNA are products of transcription, but they are not translated as is mRNA.

RNA can be observed to self-replicate without the assistance of proteins, while DNA always requires protein-based enzymes to replicate.

(B) is the best alternate hypothesis

RNA is a nucleic acid that has a single-stranded structure. RNA is also a genetic material. It helps in coding, decoding, and gene expression.

Thus, the hypothesis (B) RNA can be observed to self-replicate without the assistance of proteins, while DNA always requires protein-based enzymes to replicate is the correct option.

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(A) RNA like DNA is a carrier of genetic information and contains the nitrogen bases adenine, guanine and cytosine.

Explanation:

RNA is a single stranded molecule which is replicating molecule that plays its role evolution of different stages. DNA is double stranded molecule that is stable under alkaline conditions and perform various functions in different body parts. RNA provides template on which DNA nucleotides assemble.