Victoria Police forensic scientists conduct DNA profiling using samples taken from crime scenes - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 2 - 2007 - Paper 1
Question 2
Victoria Police forensic scientists conduct DNA profiling using samples taken from crime scenes. Traces of DNA of less than 1 nanogram can be amplified and then prof... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Victoria Police forensic scientists conduct DNA profiling using samples taken from crime scenes - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 2 - 2007 - Paper 1
Step 1
a. Name the process which is used to amplify the DNA.
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The process used to amplify DNA is called Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).
Step 2
b. What must be done between stages 1 and 2 to separate the strands of the DNA molecule?
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
To separate the strands of the DNA molecule, the temperature must be increased to 90°C or greater in order to dissociate the strands and break the hydrogen bonds.
Step 3
c. Complete and label the diagram at stage 2.
96%
101 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
In stage 2, the diagram should include the following:
Primers attached at the 3' end on opposite strands.
The temperature should be reduced to approximately 50°C.
DNA/Taq polymerase is added to propagate the process away from the primer.