Biology STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) Practice Test

Which of the following is a characteristic of nucleic acids?

1. They are primarily used for energy

2. They store and transmit genetic information

3. They help by providing structural support

4. They facilitate cellular detoxification

The correct answer is: They store and transmit genetic information

Nucleic acids, which include DNA and RNA, are essential biomolecules primarily responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information. This characteristic is vital for the continuation of life, as it allows for the coding, decoding, regulation, and expression of genes. DNA, specifically, stores this genetic blueprint, while RNA plays a crucial role in translating that information into proteins, which carry out various functions within a cell. The ability of nucleic acids to replicate and transfer genetic information ensures that traits are inherited and that organisms can develop, grow, and reproduce. The other options describe functions related to other types of macromolecules. For instance, the first choice refers to carbohydrates, particularly glucose, which is a primary energy source in biological systems. The third choice relates to structural proteins, such as collagen, that provide support in various tissues. The last option pertains to enzymes or other proteins involved in detoxification processes within the cell, distinguishing these functions from the primary role of nucleic acids.