Question

The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can be used to produce __________ of copies in a few hours.

A. Hundreds

B. Thousands

C. Millions

D. Billions

Answer 1

C. Millions

The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a powerful technique that can be used to amplify a specific DNA sequence exponentially. By utilizing a DNA template, primers, DNA polymerase, and nucleotides, PCR can generate millions of copies of the target DNA sequence in just a few hours.

During each cycle of PCR, the DNA template is denatured to separate the double-stranded DNA into two single strands. Primers, which are short DNA sequences that are complementary to regions flanking the target sequence, bind to the template strands. DNA polymerase then extends the primers, synthesizing new DNA strands that are complementary to the template strands. This process results in the doubling of the DNA copies.

With each subsequent cycle of denaturation, primer annealing, and DNA synthesis, the number of DNA copies doubles. After just a few cycles, the target DNA sequence can be amplified to millions of copies.

PCR has revolutionized various fields of molecular biology, genetics, diagnostics, and biotechnology by providing a rapid and efficient method for DNA amplification.

Therefore, the correct answer is C. Millions.