Viruses having RNA genome evolve faster, because :-

Options

A. RNA is unstable and mutate at a faster rate
B. RNA is more stable
C. RNA is first genetic material
D. RNA is the main genetic material

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks why viruses that have RNA genomes evolve faster than those with DNA genomes.

2. **Key Characteristics of RNA**:
- RNA is generally less stable than DNA. This instability is due to the presence of a hydroxyl group (-OH) on the 2' carbon of the ribose sugar in RNA, which makes it more prone to hydrolysis and degradation.
- RNA is also more chemically reactive than DNA, which can lead to more frequent changes or mutations in the genetic material.

3. **Mutation Rate**:
- Because of the instability and reactivity of RNA, viruses with RNA genomes tend to mutate at a higher rate. This rapid mutation can lead to the evolution of new strains of the virus, allowing them to adapt quickly to changing environments or host defenses.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the primary reason that RNA viruses evolve faster is that their RNA genomes are unstable and mutate at a faster rate compared to DNA genomes.

5. **Correct Answer**:
- The correct answer to the question is that RNA is unstable and mutates at a faster rate.