A researcher is using nucleic acid hybridization to identify a viral DNA sequence in a sample. What is the significance of using a complementary probe in this process?

• A. It increases the overall length of the DNA sequence.
• B. It prevents the DNA from denaturing during the process.
• C. It allows the DNA to replicate more efficiently.
• D. It ensures specific binding to the target sequence, allowing for accurate detection.

Answer: (D)