The correct answer is option 1: single-stranded RNA. The AIDS virus, also known as HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), belongs to a group of viruses called retroviruses. Retroviruses have RNA as their genetic material instead of DNA. HIV contains single-stranded RNA, which means that its genetic information is encoded in a single strand of RNA molecules. The RNA genome of HIV is used as a template to produce DNA through a process called reverse transcription. This DNA is then integrated into the host cell`s DNA, allowing the virus to replicate and hijack the host`s cellular machinery to produce more virus particles. It is important to note that while HIV has RNA as its genetic material, it can still undergo reverse transcription to produce DNA during its life cycle.