DNA analysis is useful in determining
A. the colour of the suspect's hair
B. the blood type of a suspect
C. whether a victim and suspect share some genetic code
D. whether a victim and suspect were in contact
C. whether a victim and suspect share some genetic code
DNA analysis is useful in determining:
C. whether a victim and suspect share some genetic code
DNA analysis is useful in determining C. whether a victim and suspect share some genetic code.
To understand why DNA analysis can determine whether a victim and suspect share some genetic code, let's break it down:
DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a molecule present in almost every cell of an organism. It contains the genetic instructions that determine an individual's traits and characteristics. The specific sequence of bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine) in DNA varies from person to person, making each person's DNA unique.
When a crime is committed and biological evidence, such as blood or tissue, is left at the crime scene, forensic scientists can extract the DNA from that evidence. They can then compare this DNA sample to the DNA of potential suspects to determine if there is a match.
To do this, scientists use various techniques, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing. PCR allows for the amplification of specific regions of DNA, making it easier to analyze. DNA sequencing involves determining the exact order of bases in a DNA sample.
By comparing the DNA profiles of the victim and the suspect, scientists can determine whether there are similarities or matches in their genetic code. If there is a match, it suggests that the suspect's DNA was present at the crime scene, indicating a potential connection between the suspect and the crime.
Therefore, DNA analysis is a powerful tool that can help establish whether a victim and suspect share some genetic code, providing valuable evidence in criminal investigations.