Benzer analyzed more than 1600 different mutations in the rII locus of phage T4. Below are data from four such mutations: A, B, C and D.

When coinfections are performed in E. coli strain K, the following results are obtained:

A + B = lysis

A + C = lysis

B + C = no lysis

B + D = no lysis

C + D = no lysis

In a second experiment, coinfections are performed in E. coli strain B. Then, progeny phage are collected and examined for their ability to form plaques in E. coli strain K. The following results are obtained:

A + B = plaques

B + C = plaques

C + D = plaques

B + D = no plaques

The conclusion most consistent with these data is:

A. A carries a mutation in one gene, B, C, and D are on a different gene, C and D both carry the same mutation.

B. A and B carry mutations in the same gene, C and D are on a different gene.

C. A carries a mutation in one gene, B, C, and D are on a different gene, B and C both carry the same mutation.

D. A carries a mutation in one gene, B, C, and D are on a different gene, B and D both carry the same mutation.

E. A, B, C, and D carry mutations in the same gene.