The genetic material of a virioid is :

Options

A. DNA
B. RNA
C. Protein
D. Carbohydrate

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Viroids**: Viroids are infectious agents that primarily affect plants. They are much smaller than viruses and are known as the smallest of viruses.

2. **Identifying Genetic Material**: The question asks about the genetic material of viroids. It is important to note that viroids do not have the same structure as typical viruses.

3. **Composition of Viroids**: The genetic material of viroids is composed solely of RNA. Unlike viruses, viroids do not have a protein coat or capsid surrounding their genetic material.

4. **Type of RNA**: The RNA present in viroids is single-stranded. This means that it consists of a single strand of nucleotides, which is a key characteristic of viroids.

5. **Exclusion of Other Options**: Since viroids do not contain DNA, carbohydrates, or a protein coat, these options can be eliminated. The only correct option is that the genetic material of viroids is single-stranded RNA.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the genetic material of a viroid is single-stranded RNA.

**Final Answer**: The genetic material of a viroid is single-stranded RNA.

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