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Multiple Choice
Which of the following scientists discovered that DNA was the genetic material in viruses?
A
Oswald Avery
B
Hershey/Chase
C
James Watson
D
Francis Crick
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of the question: The question is asking about the discovery of DNA as the genetic material in viruses, which is a key historical event in molecular biology.
Identify the scientists involved: The options provided are Oswald Avery, Hershey/Chase, James Watson, and Francis Crick. Each of these scientists made significant contributions to the field of genetics.
Recall the Hershey-Chase experiment: Alfred Hershey and Martha Chase conducted experiments in 1952 using bacteriophages (viruses that infect bacteria) to demonstrate that DNA, not protein, is the genetic material.
Differentiate between the contributions: Oswald Avery demonstrated that DNA is the genetic material in bacteria, while Watson and Crick are known for discovering the double helix structure of DNA.
Conclude based on historical experiments: The Hershey-Chase experiment specifically addressed the role of DNA in viruses, making Hershey and Chase the correct answer for this question.