Question

Hershey-Chase performed an experiment on------------------.

• A. Escherichia coli
• B. Streptococcus pneumoniae
• C. Bacteriophages
• D. Salmonella typhi

Hint:

The experiment used viruses that infect bacteria and carry labelled DNA and protein.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
Hershey and Chase (1952) wanted to show whether DNA or protein is the genetic material.

Step 2: The experiment
They used T2 bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect E. coli. One batch had DNA labelled with radioactive phosphorus and the other had protein coats labelled with radioactive sulphur.

Step 3: Result
After infection, blending and centrifugation, the radioactive phosphorus was found inside the bacteria, proving DNA is the genetic material.

Step 4: Conclusion
The experiment was performed on bacteriophages, not on the bacteria themselves.

Final Answer:
The Hershey-Chase experiment was performed on bacteriophages. \[ \boxed{\text{(C) }\text{Bacteriophages}} \]