The 'Hershey-Chase' experiment in 1952 used radioactive isotopes to prove that DNA is the genetic material of bacteriophages. They used: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

The 'Hershey-Chase' experiment in 1952 used radioactive isotopes to prove that DNA is the genetic material of bacteriophages. They used:
A. 35S to label proteins and 32P to label DNA
B. 32P to label proteins and 35S to label DNA
C. 14C to label proteins and 3H to label DNA
D. 15N to label proteins and 14N to label DNA
Answer: Option A
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
In 1952, Alfred Hershey and Martha Chase conducted the famous blender experiment to confirm that DNA is the genetic material of the T2 bacteriophage. They used radioactive sulfur (35S) to label the protein coat (capsid) of the phage, as sulfur is present in amino acids (methionine, cysteine) but not in DNA. They used radioactive phosphorus (32P) to label the DNA, as phosphorus is in the DNA backbone but not in proteins. After infection and blending, they found that only 32P (DNA) entered the bacterial cell to produce new phages, proving DNA is the genetic material.

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Practice More Biology Questions

Question #1
Consider statements about human immunity: 1. Skin acts as a physical barrier. 2. White blood cells fight infections. 3. Antibiotics are effective against viruses. Which are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2 and 3
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1 and 3 only

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
The skin and mucous membranes form the first line of defense (innate immunity), acting as physical barriers that prevent pathogens from entering the body. White blood cells (leukocytes), including phagocytes and lymphocytes, are the cellular components of the immune system that identify, attack, and destroy pathogens. Antibiotics are drugs designed to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria; they are completely ineffective against viruses, which lack the cellular machinery targeted by antibiotics. Thus, statements 1 and 2 are correct.

This question belongs to: Science Biology
Question #2
The 'Hormone Gastrin' is secreted by the 'G cells' of the stomach and primarily stimulates:
A. The liver to produce bile
B. The pancreas to secrete bicarbonate
C. The gastric glands to secrete hydrochloric acid (HCl) and pepsinogen
D. The gall bladder to contract

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
Gastrin is a peptide hormone produced by the G cells (gastrin cells) located in the pyloric antrum of the stomach. Its primary function is to stimulate the parietal cells of the gastric glands to secrete hydrochloric acid (HCl) and the chief cells to secrete pepsinogen. This prepares the stomach for the digestion of food. Gastrin also stimulates gastric motility and growth of the gastric mucosa. Secretin and CCK stimulate the pancreas and gall bladder.

This question belongs to: Science Biology
Question #3
Abscisic acid (ABA) is often called the 'stress hormone' because it:
A. Promotes cell division
B. Accelerates fruit ripening
C. Promotes seed germination
D. Induces stomatal closure during water stress

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
Abscisic acid (ABA) is known as the stress hormone because it plays a crucial role in plant responses to environmental stresses, particularly drought. It induces the closure of stomata to reduce water loss (transpiration) and also inhibits seed germination and growth, helping the plant survive adverse conditions.

This question belongs to: Science Biology