Question 1

Which of the following best describes the process of transformation in bacteria?

Accepted Answer

Bacteria absorb DNA from the environment and incorporate it into their own genome.

Question 2

In the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), what is the primary function of the primers?

Accepted Answer

Primers provide a starting point for DNA polymerase to synthesize new DNA strands.

Question 3

A forensic scientist is analyzing a DNA sample using short tandem repeats (STRs). What property of STRs makes them useful for identifying individuals?

Accepted Answer

STRs have different numbers of repeats in each person, making their patterns unique.

Question 4

During gel electrophoresis, why do smaller DNA fragments move farther through the gel than larger fragments?

Accepted Answer

Smaller fragments encounter less resistance and move more easily through the gel matrix.

Question 5

Which equation best represents the exponential amplification of DNA during PCR, where $$n is $$the number of cycles?

Accepted Answer

$$2^n$$

Question 6

CRISPR-Cas9 is a revolutionary tool in biotechnology because it allows scientists to:

Accepted Answer

Make precise, targeted changes to an organism's DNA sequence.

Question 7

Which of the following is a real-world application of genetically modified organisms (GMOs)?

Accepted Answer

Producing insulin in bacteria for diabetes treatment.

Question 8

A scientist wants to clone a gene for insulin production. Which sequence of steps is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Isolate the insulin gene, insert it into a plasmid, and introduce the plasmid into bacteria.

Question 9

Which of the following best explains why DNA fragments are negatively charged and move toward the positive electrode in gel electrophoresis?

Accepted Answer

The phosphate groups in the DNA backbone carry negative charges.

Question 10

In the context of gene therapy, what is the role of a viral vector?

Accepted Answer

To deliver therapeutic DNA into the host cell's genome.

Question 11

Which process is most likely to result in a genetically modified organism (GMO)?

Accepted Answer

Introducing recombinant DNA into an organism's genome.

Question 12

A crime scene investigator uses PCR to analyze a DNA sample. If the investigator runs 30 cycles, how many copies of the original DNA segment will be produced?

Accepted Answer

$$2^{30}$$

Question 13

Which of the following is NOT a step in the polymerase chain reaction (PCR)?

Accepted Answer

Restriction enzyme digestion

Question 14

What is the main ethical concern associated with genetically editing pig kidneys for human transplantation?

Accepted Answer

Potential for cross-species disease transmission and long-term health effects.

Question 15

Which of the following statements about CRISPR-Cas9 is correct?

Accepted Answer

It uses a guide RNA to direct the Cas9 enzyme to a specific DNA sequence for cutting.

Question 16

In forensic DNA profiling, why is it important to analyze multiple STR loci?

Accepted Answer

It increases the probability of uniquely identifying an individual.

Question 17

Which of the following is a function of restriction endonucleases in biotechnology?

Accepted Answer

They cut DNA at specific sequences, allowing for gene cloning.

Question 18

A scientist uses gel electrophoresis to analyze DNA fragments. If the electric field is reversed, what will happen to the movement of the DNA fragments?

Accepted Answer

The DNA fragments will move toward the opposite end of the gel.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the role of plasmids in genetic engineering?

Accepted Answer

Plasmids serve as vectors to carry foreign genes into host cells.

Question 20

In the life cycle of a typical virus, what is the correct sequence of events after the virus attaches to a host cell?

Accepted Answer

The virus enters the cytoplasm, releases its genetic material, and the host replicates viral DNA or RNA.

ch 14

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards