Which of the following is capable of self-replication

Options

A. An enzyme
B. A carbohydrate Molecule
C. A water molecule
D. A nucleic acid

Explanation

To determine which of the following is capable of self-replication, we need to analyze the options provided: enzyme, carbohydrate molecule, water molecule, and nucleic acid.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Self-Replication**:
- Self-replication refers to the ability of a molecule to reproduce itself or create copies of itself.

2. **Analyzing Each Option**:
- **Enzyme**: Enzymes are proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions but do not replicate themselves. They are synthesized from amino acids and require a template for their formation.
- **Carbohydrate Molecule**: Carbohydrates are organic molecules made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They do not have the ability to replicate themselves and must be formed through metabolic processes.
- **Water Molecule**: Water (H2O) is a simple molecule composed of hydrogen and oxygen. It does not replicate itself; it is a stable compound that does not undergo self-replication.
- **Nucleic Acid**: Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are capable of self-replication. They can produce copies of themselves through processes such as DNA replication, where enzymes play a crucial role in the joining of nucleotides.

3. **Conclusion**:
- Among the options provided, the only molecule capable of self-replication is **nucleic acid**.

### Final Answer:
The correct answer is **nucleic acid**.

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