If you start with one double-stranded DNA molecule and you perform SIX cycles of PCR, how many double
stranded copies of the DNA will you have?

• A. 6.
• B. 8.
• C. 16.
• D. 32.
• E. 64.

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the basic principle of PCR: PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is a technique used to amplify DNA, meaning it makes many copies of a specific DNA segment. Each cycle of PCR doubles the number of DNA molecules.
2. Start with the initial number of DNA molecules: You begin with one double-stranded DNA molecule.
3. Calculate the number of DNA molecules after each cycle: Since each cycle doubles the number of DNA molecules, you can use the formula \(2^n\), where \(n\) is the number of cycles.
4. Apply the formula for six cycles: Substitute \(n = 6\) into the formula \(2^n\) to determine the number of double-stranded DNA molecules after six cycles.
5. Interpret the result: The calculation will show that after six cycles, the number of double-stranded DNA molecules is \(2^6\). This is how you determine the final number of DNA copies.