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

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Study for the Biology STAAR Test. Improve your skills with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question is accompanied by hints and explanations. Prepare for success!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

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Which biomolecule is responsible for storing genetic information?

Carbohydrates
Lipids
Nucleic acids
Proteins

The correct answer is: Nucleic acids

Nucleic acids are the biomolecules that store genetic information. They include DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid). DNA carries the genetic blueprints that determine the characteristics of living organisms and is responsible for the hereditary material passed from parents to offspring. The structure of DNA, characterized by its double helix formation, allows it to store vast amounts of genetic information within its sequences of nucleotides. On the other hand, carbohydrates serve primarily as energy sources and structural components in cells. Lipids, which include fats and oils, play key roles in energy storage and forming cellular membranes. Proteins are essential for countless functions within the body, including catalyzing metabolic reactions and providing structural support, but they do not store genetic information. The specific role of nucleic acids in genetics explains why they are recognized as the primary storage molecules for hereditary information.