DNA Profile Exam Quiz

Approved & Edited by ProProfs Editorial Team

The editorial team at ProProfs Quizzes consists of a select group of subject experts, trivia writers, and quiz masters who have authored over 10,000 quizzes taken by more than 100 million users. This team includes our in-house seasoned quiz moderators and subject matter experts. Our editorial experts, spread across the world, are rigorously trained using our comprehensive guidelines to ensure that you receive the highest quality quizzes.

Learn about Our Editorial Process

| By Shannon Gilroy

Shannon Gilroy

Community Contributor

Quizzes Created: 9 | Total Attempts: 8,734

Questions: 10 | Attempts: 344 | Updated: Jul 25, 2024

Questions

Settings

Feedback

During the Quiz End of Quiz

Difficulty

Sequential Easy First Hard First

Play as

Quiz Flashcard

Create your own Quiz

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Whatsapp Share on Pinterest Share on Email Copy to Clipboard Embed on your website

If you are also curious about how scientists unlock the secrets held within our DNA then our interactive DNA Profile Exam Quiz is perfect for you. This quiz is designed to test your knowledge of DNA profiling, an essential technique used in forensic science, paternity tests, and genetic research. You’ll face questions about the processes involved in extracting DNA, analyzing specific genetic markers, and the applications of this technology in real-world scenarios.

Suitable for both newcomers and those with some prior understanding. Each question aims to deepen your appreciation and understanding of how DNA profiling works and its importance in Read moreboth legal and scientific fields. Prepare to challenge yourself and expand your knowledge with our DNA Profile Exam Quiz.

DNA Profile Exam Questions and Answers

1.

What is the primary purpose of DNA profiling?
- A.
  
  To cure genetic diseases
- B.
  
  To identify individuals
- C.
  
  To clone animals
- D.
  
  To enhance food flavors
Correct Answer
B. To identify individuals

Explanation
DNA profiling primarily serves to identify individuals based on their unique genetic makeup. It is used extensively in forensic science to link suspects to crime scenes, in paternity tests to confirm biological relationships, and in genealogical research to trace family lineage. This identification is possible because every individual (except identical twins) has unique DNA sequences that can be detected and matched through specific tests.

Rate this question:
2.

Which technique is commonly used for DNA profiling?
- A.
  
  Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
- B.
  
  Gel electrophoresis
- C.
  
  Both A and B
- D.
  
  CRISPR
Correct Answer
C. Both A and B

Explanation
The combination of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Gel Electrophoresis is pivotal in DNA profiling. PCR amplifies tiny DNA samples to quantities sufficient for testing, while gel electrophoresis sorts DNA fragments based on size, enabling precise comparison and identification.

Rate this question:
3.

What type of sample is NOT typically used for DNA profiling?
- A.
  
  Blood
- B.
  
  Saliva
- C.
  
  Hair
- D.
  
  Synthetic DNA
Correct Answer
D. Synthetic DNA

Explanation
Synthetic DNA is not typically used for DNA profiling as it does not represent an individual's genetic profile. DNA profiling relies on samples that contain DNA directly taken from an individual, such as blood, hair, or saliva, which contain natural DNA sequences crucial for identification processes.

Rate this question:
4.

In DNA profiling, what determines an individual's genetic makeup?
- A.
  
  Protein sequences
- B.
  
  RNA sequences
- C.
  
  Short tandem repeats (STRs)
- D.
  
  All of the above
Correct Answer
C. Short tandem repeats (STRs)

Explanation
Short tandem repeats (STRs) are regions in the DNA that vary highly between individuals. These variations make STRs excellent markers for DNA profiling. By comparing specific STRs, scientists can distinguish between individuals with high accuracy. This method is favored due to its reliability and the relatively small sample sizes required.

Rate this question:
5.

What is the main application of DNA profiling in forensics?
- A.
  
  Determining cause of death
- B.
  
  Identifying suspects
- C.
  
  Predicting disease
- D.
  
  Drug development
Correct Answer
B. Identifying suspects

Explanation
In forensics, the main application of DNA profiling is identifying suspects by matching DNA found at crime scenes with suspects' DNA. This process is crucial for both implicating and exonerating individuals in criminal investigations, thereby serving as a powerful tool for law enforcement agencies.

Rate this question:
6.

Which area has DNA profiling NOT significantly impacted?
- A.
  
  Criminal justice
- B.
  
  Entertainment
- C.
  
  Paternity tests
- D.
  
  Genetic health screening
Correct Answer
B. Entertainment

Explanation
While DNA profiling has revolutionized fields like criminal justice, paternity testing, and health screening, its impact on entertainment is minimal. The use of DNA profiling in entertainment typically involves fictional representations in movies and television rather than practical applications.

Rate this question:
7.

How is DNA usually collected for profiling in forensic cases?
- A.
  
  Cheek swab
- B.
  
  Blood test
- C.
  
  Skin sample
- D.
  
  All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the above

Explanation
DNA is commonly collected for profiling using non-invasive methods such as cheek swabs, blood tests, and occasionally skin samples. These methods provide sufficient cells for DNA extraction and are preferred in forensic cases due to their simplicity and effectiveness in obtaining viable samples.

Rate this question:
8.

What role do restriction enzymes play in DNA profiling?
- A.
  
  They cut DNA at specific sites.
- B.
  
  They replicate DNA.
- C.
  
  They modify DNA.
- D.
  
  They transcribe DNA.
Correct Answer
A. They cut DNA at specific sites.

Explanation
Restriction enzymes are essential in DNA profiling as they cut DNA strands at specific sequences. This cutting creates predictable and reproducible patterns of DNA fragments. By analyzing these patterns, scientists can compare genetic material from different samples, which is fundamental in identifying genetic similarities and differences.

Rate this question:
9.

What ethical concern is most associated with DNA profiling?
- A.
  
  Privacy and data security
- B.
  
  Cost-effectiveness
- C.
  
  Speed of results
- D.
  
  All of the above
Correct Answer
A. Privacy and data security

Explanation
The primary ethical concern with DNA profiling relates to privacy and data security. There is a significant risk involved in handling and storing sensitive genetic information, as misuse can lead to discrimination, breaches of confidentiality, and unauthorized data access, raising substantial privacy issues.

Rate this question:
10.

Which advancement has increased the accuracy of DNA profiling?
- A.
  
  Faster computing power
- B.
  
  More sensitive detection methods
- C.
  
  Both A and B
- D.
  
  Improved nutritional supplements
Correct Answer
C. Both A and B

Explanation
Advances in computing power and more sensitive detection methods have greatly increased the accuracy and efficiency of DNA profiling. Faster computers allow for quicker data analysis of complex DNA samples, while enhanced detection methods improve the reliability of identifying specific DNA markers, leading to more accurate and conclusive results.

Rate this question:

Quiz Review Timeline +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

Current Version
Jul 25, 2024

Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team
Dec 03, 2014

Quiz Created by
Shannon Gilroy

DNA Profile Exam Quiz

DNA Profile Exam Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of DNA profiling?

Which technique is commonly used for DNA profiling?

What type of sample is NOT typically used for DNA profiling?

In DNA profiling, what determines an individual's genetic makeup?

What is the main application of DNA profiling in forensics?

Which area has DNA profiling NOT significantly impacted?

How is DNA usually collected for profiling in forensic cases?

What role do restriction enzymes play in DNA profiling?

What ethical concern is most associated with DNA profiling?

Which advancement has increased the accuracy of DNA profiling?