A primitive eukaryote was discovered that displayed a unique nucleic acid as its genetic material. Analysis provided the following information: A major hyperchromic shift is evident upon heating and monitoring UV absorption at 260 nm.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the type of nucleic acid based on the hyperchromic shift. A hyperchromic shift is an increase in UV absorption, typically observed when double-stranded nucleic acids are denatured into single strands.
2. Understand that the hyperchromic effect is characteristic of DNA, as the separation of strands during heating increases UV absorption due to the exposure of more nucleotide bases.
3. Consider the wavelength of 260 nm, which is the absorption peak for nucleic acids, particularly DNA and RNA, due to the presence of aromatic bases.
4. Evaluate the possibility of the nucleic acid being DNA or RNA. Since the hyperchromic shift is more pronounced in DNA due to its double-stranded nature, this suggests the genetic material is likely DNA.
5. Conclude that the unique nucleic acid in the primitive eukaryote is likely DNA, as evidenced by the hyperchromic shift upon heating, indicating strand separation typical of DNA.

Key Concepts

Hyperchromic Effect

The hyperchromic effect refers to the increase in absorbance of UV light by nucleic acids when they are denatured or heated. This phenomenon occurs because the base pairs in double-stranded DNA or RNA are disrupted, allowing more UV light to be absorbed. Monitoring this shift at 260 nm is crucial for assessing the stability and integrity of nucleic acids.

Nucleic Acids

Nucleic acids, including DNA and RNA, are biopolymers essential for all known forms of life. They serve as the genetic material, encoding the information necessary for the growth, development, and reproduction of organisms. Understanding the structure and function of nucleic acids is fundamental in genetics, particularly when analyzing genetic material in primitive organisms.

Eukaryotic Cells

Eukaryotic cells are complex cells characterized by the presence of a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. Unlike prokaryotes, eukaryotes can be unicellular or multicellular and include organisms such as plants, animals, and fungi. The discovery of a primitive eukaryote with unique nucleic acids suggests evolutionary significance and potential insights into the origins of genetic material.