Question

Assertion (A): In prokaryotes the DNA in the nucleoid is organized in large loops held by proteins.
Reason (R): In prokaryotes, negatively charged DNA molecules are held with positively charged proteins.
Identify the correct option from the following:

• A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is correct explanation for (A)
• B. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation for (A)
• C. (A) is true, but (R) is false
• D. (A) is false, but (R) is true

Hint:

In assertion-reason questions, confirm both statements independently before checking whether the reason logically explains the assertion.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Analyze Assertion (A)
In prokaryotes, the DNA is located in a region called the nucleoid. It is organized in large loops that are stabilized by proteins. Hence, Assertion (A) is true. Step 2: Analyze Reason (R)
DNA is negatively charged due to the phosphate backbone. In prokaryotes, this DNA is associated with proteins that are positively charged, allowing stabilization. So Reason (R) is also true. Step 3: Examine the explanation relationship
The reason explains why the DNA can be looped and held by proteins — the electrostatic interaction between negatively charged DNA and positively charged proteins.