Genetic Engineering, Forensics, And Biology Quiz
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Explore the intricacies of genetic engineering, forensics, and biology through this quiz. Test your knowledge on DNA manipulation techniques like PCR and gel electrophoresis, understand the role of restrictive enzymes, and grasp the vast scale of the human genome.
Genetic Engineering Quiz Questions and Answers
- 1.
What is the function of PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)?
- A.
PCR moves fragments of DNA away from the negative charge.
- B.
PCR makes multiple copies of fragments of DNA.
- C.
Arranges DNA according to size
- D.
Breaks DNA into equal sized pieces
Correct Answer
B. PCR makes multiple copies of fragments of DNA.Explanation
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is a technique used to amplify or make multiple copies of specific fragments of DNA. It involves a series of temperature cycles that allow the DNA to be denatured, or separated into single strands, and then replicated using a DNA polymerase enzyme. By repeatedly cycling through these temperature changes, PCR can produce millions or even billions of copies of a specific DNA sequence from a small starting amount. This is useful in various applications such as genetic research, forensic analysis, and medical diagnostics, where a large amount of DNA is needed for analysis.Rate this question:
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- 2.
CLICK on ALL that apply. (NOTE: these is NO partial credit!) DNA can be used for analysis. DNA can USUALLY be used from (choose all that apply):
- A.
Blood
- B.
Cheek cells (buccal swab)
- C.
Cleaned fingernails
- D.
Hair follicles
- E.
Hair stands (shaft) that falls out naturally.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Blood
B. Cheek cells (buccal swab)
D. Hair folliclesExplanation
Fingernails do not inherently contain DNA, but DNA can sometimes be found under nails if there is evidence of scratching someone. Hair strands that fall out naturally generally do not contain DNA, as they lack follicles. However, if the hair is pulled out with the root and skin (hair follicle), DNA can be extracted for analysis. Blood and cheek cells (buccal swabs) are reliable sources of DNA for analysis.Rate this question:
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- 3.
What is the name of the enzyme that cleaves (cuts) DNA into fragments?
- A.
Ligase
- B.
DNA synthase
- C.
Restrictive Enzymes
- D.
Lactase
Correct Answer
C. Restrictive EnzymesExplanation
Restrictive enzymes, also known as restriction enzymes, are enzymes that cleave DNA into fragments by recognizing specific DNA sequences and cutting the DNA at or near those sequences. These enzymes are commonly used in molecular biology techniques, such as DNA cloning and genetic engineering, to manipulate and analyze DNA. Ligase is an enzyme that joins DNA fragments together, DNA synthase is not a recognized enzyme, and lactase is an enzyme that breaks down lactose, not DNA.Rate this question:
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- 4.
In Gel Electrophoresis, an electrical current causes the smaller, slightly charged DNA fragments to move towards the positive end. How do these fragments compare to the larger DNA fragments?
- A.
Farthest
- B.
Slowest
- C.
Least
- D.
Quickly
Correct Answer
A. FarthestExplanation
In Gel Electrophoresis, smaller DNA fragments travel farther towards the positive electrode because they encounter less resistance in the gel. Larger DNA fragments are slower and do not travel as far because they are more hindered by the gel matrix. This process is used to separate DNA fragments by size, which allows scientists to analyze and compare different DNA samples based on their length.
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- 5.
Approximately how many base pairs are there in the human genome?
- A.
100 million
- B.
5 billion
- C.
100,000
- D.
3 billion base pairs
Correct Answer
D. 3 billion base pairsExplanation
The human genome contains approximately 3 billion base pairs of DNA. These base pairs are arranged on the 46 chromosomes found in human cells. The genome contains all the genetic information required to build and maintain a human being. This vast amount of genetic material is packaged within the nucleus of every cell and plays a crucial role in the functions and development of the body.Rate this question:
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- 6.
What technique is used to amplify small amounts of DNA for analysis?
- A.
PCR
- B.
DNA Sequencing
- C.
Gel Electrophoresis
- D.
CRISPR
Correct Answer
A. PCRExplanation
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is a technique that amplifies small amounts of DNA to make them easier to analyze. It involves repeated cycles of heating and cooling, allowing the DNA to denature (separate into single strands) and then be replicated using a DNA polymerase enzyme. This process can produce millions of copies of a specific DNA sequence, which is crucial in situations where only a tiny sample of DNA is available, such as in forensics or medical diagnostics. PCR enables detailed analysis even from degraded or low-quantity DNA samples.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which enzyme is used to cut DNA at specific sequences in genetic engineering?
- A.
DNA Ligase
- B.
Restriction Enzyme
- C.
Polymerase
- D.
Reverse Transcriptase
Correct Answer
B. Restriction EnzymeExplanation
Restriction enzymes are proteins that cut DNA at specific sequences. These enzymes act as molecular scissors, recognizing short sequences of nucleotides and making cuts at precise points. This property is fundamental to genetic engineering as it allows scientists to isolate and manipulate genes of interest. By cutting DNA into manageable fragments, restriction enzymes enable researchers to insert or remove genes, clone DNA, and create genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This precision makes them indispensable tools in molecular biology, gene therapy, and biotechnology.Rate this question:
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- 8.
In Forensic Biology, what is used to create a DNA profile from a crime scene?
- A.
Gel Electrophoresis
- B.
Microsatellite Analysis
- C.
Polymerase Chain Reaction
- D.
DNA Sequencing
Correct Answer
C. Polymerase Chain ReactionExplanation
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is the primary method used in forensic biology to create DNA profiles from crime scene samples. PCR amplifies specific regions of DNA, allowing forensic scientists to generate sufficient quantities of DNA from small, degraded, or mixed samples. Once the DNA is amplified, it can be analyzed using techniques like gel electrophoresis to create a DNA profile. This profile is unique to an individual, allowing for identification, comparison, and matching to evidence collected from crime scenes. PCR plays a critical role in modern forensic investigations, ensuring accurate identification.Rate this question:
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- 9.
What is a primary goal of genetic engineering in plants?
- A.
Pest resistance
- B.
Producing human hormones
- C.
Creating new species
- D.
Cloning animals
Correct Answer
A. Pest resistanceExplanation
The primary goal of genetic engineering in plants is often to introduce beneficial traits, such as pest resistance, into crops. By manipulating the plant's DNA, scientists can enhance the plant's natural defenses against pests, diseases, and environmental stress. This reduces the need for chemical pesticides and increases agricultural productivity. Genetic engineering can also be used to improve nutritional content, tolerance to drought, and resistance to herbicides. These advancements help address food security challenges, particularly in regions where climate change and pests threaten crop yields, making genetic engineering an essential tool in modern agriculture.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which of the following can be used in genetic forensics to identify individuals?
- A.
Blood type
- B.
Hair color
- C.
DNA fingerprinting
- D.
Fingerprints
Correct Answer
C. DNA fingerprintingExplanation
DNA fingerprinting is a method used in forensic science to identify individuals based on their unique DNA profiles. It analyzes specific regions of the DNA that vary greatly between individuals, known as variable number tandem repeats (VNTRs) or short tandem repeats (STRs). The pattern of these repeats is unique to each person, making DNA fingerprinting a powerful tool in criminal investigations, paternity testing, and identifying human remains. Unlike physical traits, DNA does not change over time, making it a reliable method for accurate identification in forensic biology.Rate this question:
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Current Version
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Jan 27, 2025Quiz Edited by
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Nov 13, 2013Quiz Created by
Kwchiro
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