how are genetic markers used in paternity testing

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice questions

1. How are genetic markers utilized in paternity testing?

A. They identify unique sequences in the father's DNA present in the child.
B. They analyze the presence or absence of specific alleles for certain genes.
C. They compare the child's blood type to the parents' blood types.
D. They measure the child's physical resemblance to the father.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Genetic markers are specific DNA sequences that can vary among individuals. In paternity testing, genetic markers are used to compare the DNA of the child with that of the alleged father. By analyzing the presence or absence of specific alleles (different forms of a gene) at these genetic markers, scientists can determine the likelihood of paternity. This method is more accurate and reliable than comparing blood types (choice C) or physical resemblance (choice D) as genetic markers provide a direct comparison of DNA sequences between individuals. Therefore, option B is the correct choice as it accurately describes the use of genetic markers in paternity testing.

2. Which of the following best describes the statement 'This flower is dead; someone must have forgotten to water it'?

A. A classification
B. An observation
C. An inference
D. A collection

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'C: An inference.' An inference is a conclusion reached based on evidence and reasoning. In this statement, the conclusion that someone must have forgotten to water the flower is drawn from the evidence that the flower is dead. Choice A, 'A classification,' is incorrect because the statement does not involve categorizing or grouping. Choice B, 'An observation,' is incorrect as the statement goes beyond just stating a fact and makes a conclusion. Choice D, 'A collection,' is unrelated to the process of drawing a conclusion based on the given evidence.

3. What is the difference between a phylum and a class?

A. Phylums are broader and more general
B. Classes are broader and more general
C. They are synonyms, used for the same groups
D. Phylums are for plants, classes are for animals

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In biological classification, a phylum is a higher taxonomic rank than a class. A phylum is a broader category that encompasses multiple classes within it. It represents a group of organisms sharing a common body plan or evolutionary history. On the other hand, a class is a more specific category within a phylum that includes organisms with similar characteristics. Therefore, phyla are broader and more general compared to classes. Choice B is incorrect because classes are more specific categories within phyla. Choice C is incorrect as phyla and classes are distinct hierarchical levels in taxonomy. Choice D is incorrect because phyla and classes are not restricted to specific types of organisms; they can apply to various organisms across the biological kingdom.

4. What cellular process ensures the accurate transmission of genetic material during cell division?

A. Mitosis (somatic cell division)
B. Meiosis (germ cell division)
C. Replication (DNA duplication)
D. Transcription (DNA to RNA conversion)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Mitosis is the correct answer. Mitosis is the process by which somatic cells divide to produce two identical daughter cells. During mitosis, the genetic material is accurately replicated and distributed to ensure each daughter cell receives a complete set of chromosomes. This process is crucial for growth, repair, and maintenance of multicellular organisms. Meiosis, on the other hand, is the type of cell division that occurs in germ cells to produce gametes (sperm and egg cells), focusing on genetic diversity through recombination and reduction of chromosome number. Replication is the process of copying DNA to produce an identical copy, essential for cell division but not the specific process ensuring accurate genetic material transmission. Transcription involves copying DNA into RNA, crucial for gene expression but not directly related to the accurate transmission of genetic material during cell division.

5. How many different types of tissue are there in the human body?

A. 4
B. 6
C. 8
D. 10

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 4. There are 4 types of tissues in the human body: epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous. Epithelial tissue covers the body surfaces, connective tissue provides support and structure, muscle tissue enables movement, and nervous tissue transmits signals. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not represent the accurate number of tissue types found in the human body.