Question 1

Which of the following best describes a transgenic organism?

Accepted Answer

An organism that has had a foreign gene inserted into its genome.

Question 2

In recombinant DNA technology, what is the primary function of restriction enzymes?

Accepted Answer

To cut DNA at specific sites, creating 'sticky ends'.

Question 3

Why is it possible to transfer cloned genes between virtually any organism?

Accepted Answer

Because the genetic code is nearly universal.

Question 4

Which sequence correctly describes the steps for producing human insulin using recombinant DNA technology?

Accepted Answer

Remove human gene, insert into plasmid, insert plasmid into bacteria, bacteria produce insulin.

Question 5

A scientist wants to join two DNA fragments together after cutting them with restriction enzymes. Which enzyme should be used?

Accepted Answer

DNA ligase

Question 6

Transgenic bacteria are commonly used in biotechnology for which of the following applications?

Accepted Answer

Producing insulin, cleaning oil spills, and preventing frost on crops.

Question 7

Which of the following is a real-world example of a genetically modified plant designed to improve food quality?

Accepted Answer

Apples modified to resist browning.

Question 8

What is the main advantage of using bioreactors to grow transgenic bacteria for biotechnology products?

Accepted Answer

Bioreactors enable large-scale production and easy collection of gene products.

Question 9

A transgenic salmon grows faster than a non-transgenic salmon. What genetic modification is most likely responsible for this?

Accepted Answer

Insertion of a growth hormone gene.

Question 10

Which of the following best describes 'pharming' in biotechnology?

Accepted Answer

Using transgenic farm animals to produce pharmaceuticals in their milk.

Question 11

If a scientist introduces the nucleus from an adult cell into an enucleated egg cell, what is the expected outcome?

Accepted Answer

An organism with the identical genotype of the adult donor.

Question 12

Which equation best represents the process of joining two DNA fragments with sticky ends using DNA ligase?

Accepted Answer

$$DNA_{fragment1} + DNA_{fragment2} \rightarrow DNA_{ligase} \rightarrow Recombinant\ DNA$$

Question 13

Which of the following is NOT a typical use of genetically modified bacteria?

Accepted Answer

Production of insecticide in corn.

Question 14

A farmer wants to minimize soil erosion and reduce the need for tillage. Which biotechnology solution is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Planting genetically modified crops that are resistant to herbicides.

Question 15

Which of the following is a direct benefit of inserting a foreign gene into the genome of a plant?

Accepted Answer

The plant can produce a new protein not previously possible.

Question 16

A transgenic form of the Zika-causing Aedes aegypti mosquito is released in Florida. What is the intended effect?

Accepted Answer

To reduce the size of the mosquito population.

Question 17

Which of the following statements about the universality of the genetic code is correct?

Accepted Answer

It allows for the transfer of cloned genes between virtually any organism.

Question 18

Which process is illustrated by the following equation?
$$Human\ gene \xrightarrow{Restriction\ enzyme} Plasmid \xrightarrow{DNA\ ligase} Recombinant\ DNA$$

Accepted Answer

Production of recombinant DNA for insulin synthesis.

Question 19

Which of the following is a reason why genetically modified crops are widely planted in the United States?

Accepted Answer

They are more easily controlled for weeds and minimize soil erosion.

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why transgenic pigs are important in medicine?

Accepted Answer

They supply transplant organs for humans.

Biotechnology and Genomics: Recombinant DNA and Transgenic Organisms

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