What is DNA?

• A. A molecule that carries genetic information and instructions for the development and functioning of living organisms.
• B. A protein that speeds up reactions.
• C. A lipid that forms membranes.
• D. A carbohydrate that stores energy.

Answer: (A)

DNA is the molecule that holds the genetic information of almost all living organisms and carries the instructions needed for development, growth, and functioning. It’s made of nucleotides in a specific sequence that encodes genes; those instructions are used to make RNA and, ultimately, proteins that perform the work cells rely on. The other options describe different biomolecule types—proteins speed up reactions, lipids form membranes, and carbohydrates store energy—not the information blueprint for building and running an organism. So DNA is the genetic blueprint that guides how an organism is built and operates.