1. The Structure and Function of DNA
Chapter 10
The Structure and Function of DNA

2. Concept Check
While studying Mendelian genetics, you learned the terms genotype and phenotype. The figure diagrams the flow of genetic information in a eukaryote. Which of the following are the molecular-level equivalents of genotype and phenotype?
Genotype Phenotype
transcription translation
DNA RNA
DNA protein
RNA protein
Correct Answer: c

3. Concept Check
The genetic material at the molecular level has to account for three important properties of inheritance. The genetic material must
be able to copy itself.
be able to direct the expression of an organism’s phenotype.
generate variation in some manner.
Which of the following processes accounts for these properties?
transcription translation replication
replication translation mutation
replication transcription mutation
translation mutation replication
Copy
Phenotype expression
Variation
Correct Answer: b

4. Concept Check
An organism’s genetic information is stored within the sequence of ___________. This information is transcribed into a sequence of ____________, which are then translated into a sequence of ___________.
DNA bases, amino acids, RNA bases
RNA bases, DNA bases, amino acids
amino acids, DNA bases, RNA bases
DNA bases, RNA bases, amino acids
Correct Answer: d

5. Interpreting Data
West Nile virus (WNV) can infect humans, birds, mosquitoes, and horses. The virus probably arrived in New York in 1999 or earlier. This graph represents the spread of the disease throughout the United States. Which of the following is a valid conclusion based on this data?
WNV is a temporary United States resident.
WNV is a permanent United States resident.
There is not enough information to predict how long WNV will remain in the United States.
Correct Answer: b

6. Interpreting Data
This graph plots the human cases of WNV in New York state. Which of the following hypotheses best explain(s) the decline of human cases in New York?
WNV is disappearing from the United States.
WNV is evolving to a less virulent form.
New Yorkers have adapted their behavior to minimize exposure to WNV.
Both b and c are correct.
Correct Answer: d

7. Interpreting Data
In northern climates, infections are highest in the spring and fall. The data point for 2004 represents the cases only to Sept. 4, 2004, when this graph was prepared. Which of the following predictions appear(s) most likely?
The total 2004 cases of WNV will increase but the downward trend will continue.
It is probable that WNV cases will stabilize.
It is not possible to make a valid prediction on trends.
Both a and b are correct.
Correct Answer: d

8. Biology and Society
In the United States, biotech companies and government agencies have applied for patents for their gene discoveries. However, British courts have ruled that naturally occurring genes cannot be patented.
Do you think that all gene discoveries should be patented?
Strongly
Agree
Strongly
Disagree A. B. C. D. E.

9. Biology and Society
In the United States, biotech companies and government agencies have applied for patents for their gene discoveries. However, British courts have ruled that naturally occurring genes cannot be patented.
Do you think that human gene discoveries should not be patented?
Strongly
Agree
Strongly
Disagree A. B. C. D. E.

10. Biology and Society
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is our first line of defense for identifying and dealing with emerging diseases as well as bioterrorism. Disease outbreaks occur throughout the world.
As a taxpayer, do you agree that funds allocated to the CDC should be spent on responding to emerging disease outbreaks anywhere in the world?
Strongly
Agree
Strongly
Disagree A. B. C. D. E.