Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of restriction enzymes in recombinant DNA technology?

Accepted Answer

They cut DNA at specific sequences, allowing scientists to isolate and manipulate genes.

Question 2

Gel electrophoresis is used in molecular biology to separate DNA fragments. What property of DNA does this technique exploit?

Accepted Answer

The negative charge of DNA molecules, which causes them to migrate toward the positive electrode.

Question 3

When comparing two individuals' DNA fingerprints, which of the following is most likely to be observed?

Accepted Answer

Different banding patterns due to variations in short tandem repeats (STRs).

Question 4

Which step is NOT involved in the process of making a recombinant plasmid?

Accepted Answer

Amplifying the plasmid using PCR before transformation.

Question 5

A scientist wants to amplify a specific DNA segment. Which technique should they use?

Accepted Answer

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Question 6

Which equation correctly represents the calculation of the number of DNA molecules after $$n$$ cycles of PCR, starting with one molecule?

Accepted Answer

$$2^n$$

Question 7

Why are plasmids commonly used as vectors in genetic engineering?

Accepted Answer

They can replicate independently within bacterial cells.

Question 8

Which of the following best explains the purpose of Sanger sequencing?

Accepted Answer

To determine the exact nucleotide sequence of a DNA molecule.

Question 9

A BAC (Bacterial Artificial Chromosome) library is most useful for which application?

Accepted Answer

Cloning large fragments of DNA for genome mapping.

Question 10

Which of the following is a real-world application of DNA fingerprinting?

Accepted Answer

Identifying individuals in forensic investigations.

Question 11

Short Tandem Repeats (STRs) are used in forensic science because:

Accepted Answer

They vary greatly among individuals, allowing for unique DNA profiles.

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the difference between a genomic library and a cDNA library?

Accepted Answer

A genomic library contains all DNA sequences from an organism, while a cDNA library contains only expressed genes.

Question 13

Which of the following is a key advantage of using bacteria in DNA research?

Accepted Answer

Bacteria can rapidly reproduce and express foreign genes.

Question 14

A scientist is using PCR to amplify a gene. After 5 cycles, how many copies of the gene will be present, assuming perfect efficiency?

Accepted Answer

$$2^5 = 32$

Question 15

Which of the following is NOT a reason why scientists use restriction enzymes in DNA technology?

Accepted Answer

To amplify DNA segments.

Question 16

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

Accepted Answer

Bacteria take up foreign DNA from their environment.

Question 17

In a DNA sequencing reaction, what is the role of dideoxynucleotides?

Accepted Answer

They terminate DNA synthesis at specific bases, allowing sequence determination.

Question 18

Which of the following is a multi-step process that involves both restriction enzymes and ligase?

Accepted Answer

Creating recombinant plasmids for gene cloning.

Question 19

A scientist wants to identify which genes are expressed in a cell at a given time. Which type of library should they construct?

Accepted Answer

cDNA library

Question 20

Which of the following is a real-world example of using DNA technology to solve a medical case?

Accepted Answer

Using DNA sequencing to identify mutations responsible for cystic fibrosis.

DNA Tools and Biotechnology: Study Guide (AP Biology Chapter 20 Objectives)

Study Guide - Practice Questions