Biology MCQs
Topic Notes: Biology
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
1
What is the full form of the acronym PCR in molecular biology?
Answer:
Polymerase Chain Reaction
PCR stands for Polymerase Chain Reaction. It is a fundamental laboratory technique used to amplify specific segments of DNA, creating millions of copies from a small initial sample. This process relies on thermal cycling to denature, anneal, and extend DNA strands using a heat-stable DNA polymerase enzyme.
2
Which organism is the natural source of the thermostable Taq polymerase enzyme used in PCR?
Answer:
Thermus aquaticus
Taq polymerase is a heat-stable DNA polymerase named after the thermophilic bacterium Thermus aquaticus from which it was originally isolated. Because it remains active at high temperatures, it is essential for the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), as it can withstand the denaturation steps required to separate DNA strands without being destroyed.
3
What is the name of the in vitro technique used to synthesize multiple copies of a specific gene using two sets of primers?
Answer:
PCR
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a molecular biology technique used to amplify a single copy or a few copies of a segment of DNA across several orders of magnitude, generating thousands to millions of copies of a particular DNA sequence.
4
Which laboratory technique is utilized to amplify specific segments of DNA molecules in a test tube?
Answer:
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a revolutionary molecular biology technique used to amplify a single copy or a few copies of a segment of DNA across several orders of magnitude, generating thousands to millions of copies of a particular DNA sequence. It is essential for genetic testing, forensic analysis, and cloning.
5
Which scientist is credited with the invention of the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique?
Answer:
Karry Mullis
The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique was invented by American biochemist Kary Mullis in 1983. PCR is a molecular technique used to produce multiple copies of a specific DNA segment, making it easier to study, sequence, and manipulate the DNA. This breakthrough revolutionized molecular biology by allowing for the rapid amplification of genetic material.
6
What is the correct full form of the molecular biology technique known as PCR?
Answer:
Polymerase chain reaction
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a revolutionary laboratory technique used to amplify small segments of DNA. By using a heat-stable DNA polymerase enzyme and specific primers, researchers can generate millions of copies of a target DNA sequence. This method is essential for genetic testing, forensic analysis, and cloning, making it a cornerstone of modern molecular biology.