According to the RNA world hypothesis, RNA stored ______ and catalyzed ______.

• A. DNA stored genetic information and catalyzed chemical reactions
• B. RNA stored genetic information and catalyzed chemical reactions
• C. RNA stored energy and catalyzed lipid synthesis
• D. Proteins stored genetic information and catalyzed chemical reactions

Answer: (B)

RNA world theory says early life used RNA for both storing information and helping reactions happen. The sequence of RNA can carry genetic information much like DNA, and some RNA molecules can fold into shapes that act as enzymes, known as ribozymes, catalyzing chemical reactions needed for replication and metabolism. This dual ability to store information and to catalyze reactions makes RNA a plausible precursor to both the genetic and catalytic roles we see in later biological systems. That’s why the statement that RNA stored genetic information and catalyzed chemical reactions is the best fit. The other options mix up roles—DNA is primarily informational storage, not a typical catalyst; RNA isn’t mainly an energy store or a driver of lipid synthesis; proteins are enzymes but do not store genetic information.