What is the primary purpose of DNA?

The primary purpose of DNA is to store and transmit genetic information. DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, contains the instructions for the development, functioning, growth, and reproduction of all known living organisms and many viruses. It is the molecule that holds the genetic blueprint for the formation of proteins, which are essential for numerous cellular functions. The arrangements of nucleotide bases in DNA constitute the genetic code, which is passed from one generation to the next through reproduction. This process ensures that traits and characteristics can be inherited, making DNA fundamental to heredity and biological diversity.

The other options, while they describe important biological functions, do not accurately reflect the primary role of DNA. For instance, energy production in cells primarily involves molecules like ATP (adenosine triphosphate), while structural components in cells may include proteins or polysaccharides. Detoxification processes are managed by various enzymes and cellular mechanisms rather than DNA itself. Thus, the focus on genetic information encapsulates the essence of DNA's purpose in living organisms.