Applied Genetics Practice Exam
In the following practice exam on applied genetics, we aim to put you to the test against a series of questions related to the biological study which allows us to analyze our genetic patterns and see if we are more or less likely to develop a life-threatening illness as a result of it being transferred to us via our parents. What do you know about genetics? Let’s take a look!
Questions and Answers
- 1.
A change in a gene is called
- A.
Genetic engineering
- B.
A mutation
- C.
A gene
- D.
A pedigree
Correct Answer
B. A mutationExplanation
A change in a gene is referred to as a mutation. Mutations can occur naturally or can be induced through various factors such as exposure to radiation or chemicals. These changes can alter the DNA sequence of a gene, leading to changes in the protein it codes for. Mutations can have different effects, ranging from no impact to causing genetic disorders or diseases. Therefore, "a mutation" is the correct answer as it accurately describes the phenomenon of a change in a gene.Rate this question:
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- 2.
A chart that traces an inherited trait through several generations is called a
- A.
Pedigree
- B.
Karyotype
- C.
Family tree
- D.
Gene chart
Correct Answer
A. PedigreeExplanation
A chart that traces an inherited trait through several generations is called a pedigree. This type of chart is commonly used in genetics to analyze the inheritance patterns of specific traits or diseases within a family. It helps to visualize the relationships between family members and track the presence or absence of a trait over time. By studying pedigrees, scientists can better understand how traits are passed down from one generation to the next and identify patterns of inheritance.Rate this question:
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- 3.
In chinchillas, grey fur (G) is dominat over white fur (g). What is the percentage of offspring that will have grey fur if a heterozygous dominant chinchilla is crossed with a homozygous dominant chinchilla?
- A.
0%
- B.
50%
- C.
75%
- D.
100%
Correct Answer
D. 100%Explanation
When a heterozygous dominant chinchilla (Gg) is crossed with a homozygous dominant chinchilla (GG), the possible genotypes of the offspring are Gg and GG. Both of these genotypes have at least one dominant allele (G), which determines grey fur. Therefore, all the offspring will have grey fur. Hence, the percentage of offspring with grey fur is 100%.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The above image shows a picture of what process?
- A.
Bacterial conjugation
- B.
Genetic engineering
- C.
Recombinant DNA
- D.
Gel electrophoresis
Correct Answer
D. Gel electrophoresisExplanation
The image shows a picture of gel electrophoresis, a technique used in molecular biology to separate DNA, RNA, or proteins based on their size and charge. In gel electrophoresis, a sample is loaded onto a gel matrix and an electric current is applied, causing the molecules to migrate through the gel. The smaller molecules move faster and travel further, resulting in distinct bands or patterns that can be visualized and analyzed. This technique is commonly used in genetic research, forensics, and medical diagnostics.Rate this question:
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- 5.
"What is on the horizon for GMO's?" Combining genes from different organisms is known as recombinant DNA technology, and the resulting organism is said to be "genetically modified," "genetically engineered," or "transgenic." GM products (current or those in development) include medicines and vaccines, foods and food ingredients, feeds, and fibers. Locating genes for important traits—such as those conferring insect resistance or desired nutrients—is one of the most limiting steps in the process. However, genome sequencing and discovery programs for hundreds of organisms are generating detailed maps along with data-analyzing technologies to understand and use them. In 2006, 252 million acres of transgenic crops were planted in 22 countries by 10.3 million farmers. The majority of these crops were herbicide- and insect-resistant soybeans, corn, cotton, canola, and alfalfa. Other crops grown commercially or field-tested are a sweet potato resistant to a virus that could decimate most of the African harvest, rice with increased iron and vitamins that may alleviate chronic malnutrition in Asian countries, and a variety of plants able to survive weather extremes. On the horizon are bananas that produce human vaccines against infectious diseases such as hepatitis B; fish that mature more quickly; cows that are resistant to bovine spongiform encephalopathy (mad cow disease); fruit and nut trees that yield years earlier, and plants that produce new plastics with unique properties. In 2006, countries that grew 97% of the global transgenic crops were the United States (53%), Argentina (17%), Brazil (11%), Canada (6%), India (4%), China (3%), Paraguay (2%) and South Africa (1%). Although growth is expected to plateau in industrialized nations, it is increasing in developing countries. The next decade will see exponential progress in GM product development as researchers gain increasing and unprecedented access to genomic resources that are applicable to organisms beyond the scope of individual projects. Technologies for genetically modifying foods offer dramatic promise for meeting some of the 21st Century's greatest challenges. Like all new technologies, they also pose some risks, both known and unknown. Controversies surrounding GM foods and crops commonly focus on human and environmental safety, labeling and consumer choice, intellectual property rights, ethics, food security, poverty reduction, and environmental conservation (see GM Products: Benefits and Controversies, below).Based on the information in the article, the following statement could be concluded
- A.
Genetically modified food can provide a great deal of scientific and agricultural advancements that would benefit countries
- B.
Many other countries will now test and use genetically modified crops to provide food for their people.
- C.
Genetic engineering is a difficult process and can be very expensive.
- D.
Genetic engineering can be used to cure "mad cow" disease.
Correct Answer
A. Genetically modified food can provide a great deal of scientific and agricultural advancements that would benefit countriesExplanation
The passage states that genetically modified organisms (GMOs) have the potential to provide solutions to challenges in the 21st century, such as meeting food security needs, reducing poverty, and conserving the environment. It also mentions various examples of GM products that are currently being developed or tested, such as crops with increased nutrients, plants that can survive extreme weather, and animals with desirable traits. Therefore, it can be concluded that genetically modified food can provide scientific and agricultural advancements that would benefit countries.Rate this question:
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- 6.
A baby was found abandoned on the steps of the local hospital. Items that were located in the baby's carseat led to the identification of five individuals who were potential relatives of the child. Police took samples from the child (sample A) and five women who could be the child's mother (samples B-F). Based on the picture, which sample is most likely the mother of the child?
- A.
Sample B
- B.
Sample C
- C.
Sample D
- D.
Sample E
- E.
Sample F
Correct Answer
C. Sample D -
- 7.
Which of these is not a benefit of genetically modified organisms?
- A.
They increase the food supply
- B.
They help with scientific research of valuable proteins
- C.
They produce plants that contain their own herbicides and pesticides
- D.
They increase the risk of allergies in children
Correct Answer
D. They increase the risk of allergies in childrenExplanation
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) have several benefits, including increasing the food supply by improving crop yield and resistance to pests and diseases. They also aid in scientific research by producing valuable proteins. Additionally, GMOs can be engineered to contain their own herbicides and pesticides, reducing the need for external chemical applications. However, one potential drawback of GMOs is that they may increase the risk of allergies in children.Rate this question:
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- 8.
The chart above tells you that the disorder being traced is a
- A.
Dominant disorder
- B.
Recessive disorder
- C.
Autosomal disorder
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. Recessive disorderExplanation
Based on the information provided in the chart, it can be inferred that the disorder being traced is a recessive disorder. This can be determined because recessive disorders require both copies of the gene to be affected in order for the disorder to be expressed. If it were a dominant disorder, only one copy of the gene would need to be affected. The chart likely shows a pattern of inheritance consistent with a recessive disorder, such as the disorder skipping generations or appearing in unaffected parents who are carriers of the gene.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Male pattern baldness is a sex-linked trait. That means that it is most commonly passed from
- A.
Father to son
- B.
Mother to son
- C.
Father to daughter
- D.
Mother to daughter
Correct Answer
A. Father to sonExplanation
Male pattern baldness is a sex-linked trait because it is primarily passed down from fathers to their sons. This is because the gene responsible for male pattern baldness is located on the X chromosome. Since males inherit one X chromosome from their mother and one Y chromosome from their father, they only need to receive the baldness gene from their father to exhibit the trait. However, females can also be carriers of the gene and pass it on to their sons.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Genetic disorders are commonly inherited and are transferred from one generation to the next. However, it is possible to get a genetic disorder without it "running in the family". How does this occur?
- A.
A mutation in a gene causes the appearance of a disorder.
- B.
Genes are transferred from one individual to another through genetic engineering
- C.
Cloning
- D.
Genetic disorders can only be only be inherited
Correct Answer
A. A mutation in a gene causes the appearance of a disorder.Explanation
A mutation in a gene can cause the appearance of a genetic disorder even if it does not run in the family. Mutations can occur spontaneously during DNA replication or as a result of environmental factors such as radiation or exposure to certain chemicals. These mutations can alter the normal function of a gene, leading to the development of a genetic disorder. Therefore, it is possible for someone to have a genetic disorder without it being inherited from their family.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Having more or less than the average number of chromosomes can result in
- A.
Fraternal twins
- B.
Identical twins
- C.
Cloned cells
- D.
Genetic disorders
Correct Answer
D. Genetic disordersExplanation
Having more or less than the average number of chromosomes can lead to genetic disorders. This is because the number and structure of chromosomes play a crucial role in the normal functioning of genes and the overall genetic makeup of an individual. Any deviation from the normal number of chromosomes can disrupt the balance of genetic material, leading to various abnormalities and health conditions.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Below is a pedigree for albinism. Based on the information, what type of trait is albinism?
- A.
Autosomal and recessive
- B.
Autosomal and dominant
- C.
Sex-linked and recessive
- D.
Sex-linked and dominant
Correct Answer
A. Autosomal and recessiveExplanation
Albinism is an autosomal and recessive trait because it is not linked to the sex chromosomes (X and Y) and requires two copies of the recessive allele to be expressed. This means that individuals can be carriers of the trait without showing any symptoms, and two carrier parents have a 25% chance of having an albino child.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which of the following would be the best reason for creating genetically modified animals
- A.
Scientists would be able to control the inheritance of desirable traits while "weeding out" traits that were undesirable
- B.
Genetically modified animals created in large numbers lower the cost of food and are more healthy
- C.
Genetically modified animals can be created much quicker in a lab than in nature
- D.
Genetically modified animals can create anti-biotic resistant strains of bacteria
Correct Answer
A. Scientists would be able to control the inheritance of desirable traits while "weeding out" traits that were undesirableExplanation
Creating genetically modified animals allows scientists to have control over the inheritance of desirable traits and eliminate undesirable traits. This can lead to the development of animals with improved characteristics, such as increased resistance to diseases, higher productivity, or better nutritional value. By selectively manipulating the genes, scientists can enhance the overall quality and health of the animals. This can have significant benefits in fields like agriculture and medicine, where genetically modified animals can contribute to increased food production and the development of new treatments.Rate this question:
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- 14.
The above pedigree is for albinism. Reading from your left to your right in the second row (first generation offspring), what is the genotype of the second sibling (daughter)?
- A.
AA
- B.
Aa
- C.
Albino
- D.
Unaffected
Correct Answer
B. AaExplanation
The given pedigree is for albinism, a genetic condition caused by a recessive allele. The second sibling (daughter) in the second row is unaffected by albinism, which means she does not have the condition. This suggests that she has at least one dominant allele, making her genotype Aa.Rate this question:
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- 15.
A farmer grows a mutant form of corn on three of six fields on his farm. On the other three fields, he grows organic corn for the farmer's market. What is one possible disadvantage he will face in this process (the best possible answer)?
- A.
Increase possibility of allergies
- B.
Increase in profit because he is producing twice the amount of corn
- C.
Herbicide resistant corn
- D.
The possibility of cross-pollination destroying both crops
Correct Answer
D. The possibility of cross-pollination destroying both cropsExplanation
The farmer may face the possibility of cross-pollination destroying both crops.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Cloning involves taking a cell from one organism, fusing it with the cell of another organism and then implanting it into the uterus of a "foster mother". The offspring is then genetically identical to the parent cell. In what other situation does this occur?
- A.
Meiosis
- B.
Mitosis
- C.
Identical twins
- D.
Fraternal twins
Correct Answer
B. MitosisExplanation
Mitosis is the correct answer because it is a process of cell division in which a single cell divides into two identical daughter cells. During mitosis, the genetic material is replicated and distributed equally between the two daughter cells, resulting in genetically identical cells. This is similar to cloning where the offspring is genetically identical to the parent cell. Meiosis, on the other hand, is a type of cell division that produces cells with half the number of chromosomes, leading to genetic variation. Identical twins occur when a single fertilized egg splits into two, resulting in two genetically identical individuals. Fraternal twins, on the other hand, occur when two separate eggs are fertilized by two different sperm cells, resulting in genetically unique individuals.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Hemophilia is a sex-linked genetic disorder. Which statement best describes its inheritance pattern?
- A.
It is recessive in both males and females
- B.
It is recessive in males but dominant in females
- C.
It is recessive in females but dominant in males
- D.
It is dominant in both males and females
Correct Answer
A. It is recessive in both males and femalesExplanation
Hemophilia is a sex-linked genetic disorder, meaning it is carried on the X chromosome. The disorder is caused by a mutation in one of the genes responsible for blood clotting. Since males have only one X chromosome, if they inherit the mutated gene, they will develop hemophilia. Females, on the other hand, have two X chromosomes. In order for them to develop hemophilia, they would need to inherit the mutated gene on both X chromosomes. Therefore, hemophilia is recessive in both males and females.Rate this question:
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- 18.
In a pedigree, a half shaded individual represents a
- A.
Recessive trait
- B.
Dominant trait
- C.
Carrier
- D.
Unaffected individual
Correct Answer
C. CarrierExplanation
A half shaded individual in a pedigree represents a carrier. A carrier is an individual who carries a recessive trait but does not express it themselves. They can pass on the trait to their offspring, who may or may not express the trait depending on whether they inherit another copy of the recessive allele.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Which of these statements is least likely to cause concern about genetically modified organisms?
- A.
Genetically modified organisms are responsible for an increase in allergies in young children
- B.
Genetically modified organisms will create resistant strains of bacteria that will be hard to control or get rid of.
- C.
Genetically modified organisms can be used to create substances that are harmful to humans and other organisms
- D.
Genetically modified organisms will create mutated genetic traits in the human population
Correct Answer
D. Genetically modified organisms will create mutated genetic traits in the human populationExplanation
The statement that genetically modified organisms will create mutated genetic traits in the human population is least likely to cause concern about genetically modified organisms because there is no evidence or scientific consensus to support this claim. While there may be concerns about the potential risks and impacts of genetically modified organisms, such as allergies, antibiotic resistance, and harmful substances, the idea that they will directly cause mutated genetic traits in humans is not supported by current research.Rate this question:
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Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
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Current Version
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Mar 22, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Mar 19, 2009Quiz Created by
Mbromell
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