Genetic material is

Options

A. any nucleic acid
B. a nucleic acid made from a nucleic acid template that has been or is capable of being used as a template in replication
C. a nucleic acid that is capable of being used as a template in transcription
D. a nucleic acid that is capable of being used as a template in replication and transcription

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Genetic Material**:
- Genetic material refers to the molecules that carry the genetic information necessary for the growth, development, functioning, and reproduction of all living organisms. The primary types of genetic material are DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid).

2. **Role of Nucleic Acids**:
- Nucleic acids, which include DNA and RNA, serve as the templates for the processes of replication and transcription. DNA is the genetic blueprint, while RNA plays a crucial role in translating that blueprint into proteins.

3. **Replication Process**:
- Replication is the process by which DNA is copied to produce two identical copies. This is essential for cell division, ensuring that each new cell receives an exact copy of the genetic material.

4. **Transcription Process**:
- Transcription is the process where a specific segment of DNA is copied into RNA. This RNA can then be used to synthesize proteins, which perform various functions in the cell.

5. **Template Functionality**:
- The key characteristic of genetic material is its ability to serve as a template. In replication, DNA serves as a template to produce more DNA. In transcription, DNA serves as a template to produce RNA.

6. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the correct answer to the question "Genetic material is" is that it is a nucleic acid capable of being used as a template in both replication and transcription. This aligns with option D, which states that genetic material is a nucleic acid that can be used as a template in both processes.

### Final Answer:
Genetic material is a nucleic acid capable of being used as a template in replication and transcription (Option D).

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