Plasmid DNA generally contains genetic information that: a. is necessary for prokaryotic cell reproduction b. distinguishes one prokaryotic species from another c. may provide an advantage under some conditions d. is critical for the survival of a prokaryotic cell

Plasmid DNA play a important role for survival of a prokaryotic cell.

Option D is correct one.

Explanation:

In addition to the chromosome, many prokaryotes have plasmids, which are small rings of double-stranded extra-chromosomal ("outside the chromosome") DNA. Plasmids carry a small number of non-essential genes and are copied independently of the chromosome inside the cell. They can be transferred to other prokaryotes in a population, sometimes spreading genes that are beneficial to survival.

For instance, some plasmids carry genes that make bacteria resistant to antibiotics. (These genes are called R genes.) When the plasmids carrying R genes are exchanged in a population, they can quickly make the population resistant to antibiotic drugs. While beneficial to the bacteria, this process can make it difficult for doctors to treat harmful bacterial infections.