Given below are two statements: Statement I: RNA mutates at a faster rate. Statement II: Viruses having RNA genome and shorter life span mutate and evolve faster. In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Both Statement I and Statement II are true.
Both Statement I and Statement II are false.
Statement I is true but Statement II is false.
Statement I is false but Statement II is true.
RNA is inherently less stable than DNA due to the presence of a 2'-OH group on the ribose sugar, making it more prone to mutations. Viruses with RNA genomes, especially those with short life spans, exhibit high mutation rates, which allows them to evolve rapidly.
Join thousands of students and practice with AI-generated mock tests.