The Question is from neet-botany , and it was created by the author Mr. NARESH KUMAR K

Question

Imagine a synthetic life form created in a lab that uses a novel information storage molecule distinct from DNA or RNA, but still exhibits heritability and undergoes evolution. Which of the following aspects of the current definition of life would MOST require reconsideration in light of this discovery?

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: C
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
 **Primary Concept**: Definition of Life
 **Related Topics**: Molecular Biology, Genetics, Evolution, Synthetic Biology
 **Prerequisites**: Understanding of basic biological concepts like heredity, evolution, and the central dogma of molecular biology.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
A synthetic life form uses a novel information storage molecule instead of DNA or RNA, but still shows heritability and evolution.
**Method & Steps**:
1. Analyze each option in the context of the given information.
   Option A: Cellular structure is not directly challenged by a new information storage molecule.  Life can exist in non-cellular forms (e.g., viruses). 
   Option B: Carbon-based chemistry is a prevalent but not necessarily exclusive feature of life.  While the new molecule might be carbon-based, it doesn't necessitate a reconsideration of this aspect. 
   Option C: The specific molecular basis of heredity is directly challenged. The current definition of life strongly links heredity to DNA and RNA.  The discovery of a new hereditary molecule necessitates a broadening of this definition.
   Option D: The ability to respond to stimuli is not directly affected by the type of hereditary molecule.
2. Identify the option that requires the MOST significant reconsideration.
   Option C necessitates the most significant change to the definition of life because it directly challenges the assumed molecular basis of heredity.  The other options are less directly impacted.
3. Conclude the answer.
   The discovery necessitates a reconsideration of the specific molecular basis of heredity (Option C).

**Result**: C
**Verification**: The other options are less directly affected by the discovery of a novel hereditary molecule. Option C is the most significant change needed to the definition of life.
## OPTION ANALYSIS
A :x: The requirement for cellular structure is not directly challenged.  Life can exist without cells (e.g., viruses).
B :x: The dependence on carbon-based chemistry is not necessarily challenged. The new molecule could still be carbon-based.
C ✓: The specific molecular basis of heredity is directly challenged. This is the most significant aspect requiring reconsideration.
D :x: The ability to respond to stimuli is unrelated to the type of hereditary molecule used.
## LEARNING AIDS
 **Common Mistakes**:
  1. Focusing on cellular structure or carbon-based chemistry instead of the core concept of heredity.
  How to avoid: Carefully consider the implications of a new hereditary molecule on existing definitions. 
  2. Confusing heritability with other characteristics of life.
  How to avoid: Understand that heritability is specifically about the transmission of genetic information across generations.
 **Quick Tips**:
  1. Focus on the core principle of the question: the definition of life and the role of heredity.
  2. Remember that life's characteristics are not mutually exclusive; changes in one area can impact our understanding of others.

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

The requirement for cellular structure

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

The dependence on carbon-based chemistry

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

The correct Option is "The specific molecular basis of heredity"

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

The ability to respond to environmental stimuli

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