Question

The pairing of complementary DNA strands from two different sources is called a. DNA replication. b. DNA hybridization. c. genetic engineering. d. DNA cloning.

Short answer

The pairing of complementary DNA strands from two different sources is called DNA hybridization (option b).

Step-by-step solution

- Understand the Question

The question asks about the term used for the pairing of complementary DNA strands from two different sources. Focus on keywords: 'pairing', 'complementary DNA strands', and 'two different sources'.

- Analyze Each Option

Look at each option carefully:a. DNA replication involves the copying of DNA within a single source, not the pairing of two different sources.b. DNA hybridization involves the pairing of complementary DNA strands from different sources, which fits our context.c. Genetic engineering is a broader field that includes various techniques, not just the pairing of DNA strands.d. DNA cloning refers to creating identical copies of a DNA sequence, which does not specifically involve pairing DNA from different sources.

- Match Definition With Correct Option

Based on the analysis, DNA hybridization (option b) is the process that matches the definition given in the question.

- Confirm the Answer

Re-read the definition and options to ensure 'DNA hybridization' is indeed the best fit.

Key concepts

complementary DNA strands

Complementary DNA strands are two strands of DNA that align with each other according to specific base-pairing rules.

The DNA molecule is made up of four types of nucleotide bases: adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G). According to the base-pairing rules, adenine pairs with thymine, and cytosine pairs with guanine. This means that if one DNA strand has a sequence of bases, the other strand will have the complementary sequence.

For example, if one strand has the sequence AGCT, the complementary strand will have the sequence TCGA. This complementarity is essential for the DNA molecule’s stability and function.

When DNA strands hybridize, they form a double helix where the bases are held together by hydrogen bonds. The ability to form complementary pairs is the basis of many genetic techniques.

pairing DNA

Pairing DNA refers to the process by which two DNA strands bind together to form a double helix.

This process relies on the complementary base-pairing rules, where adenine pairs with thymine and cytosine pairs with guanine. The specificity of this pairing is what makes DNA a reliable storage medium for genetic information.

When scientists speak of DNA hybridization, they often refer to the pairing of complementary strands from different sources. For instance, one strand may originate from a bacterial genome, while the complementary strand might come from a virus. This cross-species pairing can provide insights into genetic relationships and functions.

The pairing of DNA is a crucial step in various lab techniques. Whether for detecting the presence of specific DNA sequences or for creating recombinant DNA molecules, the ability to pair complementary strands is fundamental.

genetic techniques

Genetic techniques are methods used by scientists to manipulate and study DNA and other genetic materials.

One important technique is DNA hybridization, which involves pairing complementary DNA strands from different sources. This technique helps in identifying, mapping, and characterizing gene sequences. It is useful in various areas, from diagnosing genetic diseases to studying evolutionary relationships.

Another significant technique is genetic engineering, which includes the direct manipulation of an organism's genome using biotechnology. This can involve the insertion, deletion, or modification of genes to study their function or to create organisms with desired traits.

Other techniques include DNA cloning, where a specific DNA sequence is copied to produce multiple identical copies, and PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), which amplifies small segments of DNA to generate thousands to millions of copies for further study.

All these techniques rely on the fundamental principles of DNA pairing and complementarity. By understanding these core concepts, students and researchers can better grasp how genetic information is manipulated and studied.