Photo AI
DNA includes sections that are called short tandem repeats (STR) - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 8 - 2010 - Paper 1
Question 8
DNA includes sections that are called short tandem repeats (STR). Mutations in STRs occur, on average, every 500 generations. Different numbers of these repeats have... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:DNA includes sections that are called short tandem repeats (STR) - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 8 - 2010 - Paper 1
Step 1
What is the likely reason for this?
Answer
The likely reason for the differences in the number of short tandem repeats (STRs) is that these repeats occur in non-coding regions of DNA, which typically do not influence phenotypic traits. Therefore, mutations in these regions are less likely to affect the individual's characteristics.
Step 2
Name the process used to produce many copies of the STR markers.
Answer
The process used to produce many copies of the STR markers is known as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). This technique allows for the amplification of specific DNA sequences, enabling a greater quantity of these markers for analysis.
Step 3
Explain which family is Ben’s most recent common ancestor.
Answer
Family Y is Ben's most recent common ancestor because there is only one difference or mutation between him and Family Y. In contrast, Family X and Family Z show a greater number of differences when compared to Ben, indicating they are less closely related.