Bacteria with the ability to break down certain types of plastic are placed with a colony of E. coli bacteria that lack this ability. Plasmid transfer occurs between the two colonies of bacteria and some of the E. coli gain the ability to break down plastic as well. What inference can be drawn about the nature of plasmids from this observation?

A.
Plasmids are lipids which provide energy for the cell.
B.
Plasmids are proteins which build tissues.
C.
Plasmids are nucleic acids which can pass on traits.
D.
Plasmids are carbohydrates which provide structural support.