Biology STAAR Practice Test 2026 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Mastering the State of Texas Readiness Exam!

DNA stands for deoxyribonucleic acid, which is the molecule that carries genetic information in living organisms. The term is derived from its structure; "deoxyribo" refers to the sugar component of DNA, which is deoxyribose, and "nucleic acid" indicates that it belongs to a class of macromolecules that also includes RNA (ribonucleic acid). This specific naming reflects not only the chemical structure of the molecule but also its vital role in storing and transmitting biological information essential for the growth, development, and functioning of all living organisms.

Understanding the correct terminology is crucial in biology, as it sets the foundation for more advanced topics, such as genetics, molecular biology, and biochemistry, where the roles of different nucleic acids in encoding and expressing genes are explored.