Chloroplasts are self replicating units as they possess

Options

A. DNA
B. RNA
C. Neither DNA nor RNA
D. Both DNA and RNA

Answer

To solve the question "Chloroplasts are self-replicating units as they possess," we will analyze the options provided and understand the characteristics of chloroplasts.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Chloroplasts**:
- Chloroplasts are organelles found in plant cells and some protists. They are primarily responsible for photosynthesis, which is the process of converting light energy into chemical energy.

2. **Self-Replication**:
- For an organelle to be considered self-replicating, it must have the ability to reproduce itself independently within the cell. This is typically associated with the presence of genetic material.

3. **Genetic Material**:
- The two main types of nucleic acids are DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) and RNA (Ribonucleic Acid). DNA carries the genetic blueprint for the organism, while RNA plays a crucial role in translating that blueprint into proteins.

4. **Presence of DNA and RNA in Chloroplasts**:
- Chloroplasts contain their own DNA, which is circular and resembles bacterial DNA. This is a remnant of their evolutionary origin from endosymbiotic bacteria.
- In addition to DNA, chloroplasts also contain RNA, which is necessary for protein synthesis.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Since chloroplasts possess both DNA and RNA, they can replicate themselves and produce the proteins necessary for their function. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is option D: both DNA and RNA.

### Final Answer:
Chloroplasts are self-replicating units as they possess **both DNA and RNA** (Option D).

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