IB Biology SL D1.1 Dna Replication Questions

Practise IB Biology SL D1.1 by explaining replication steps and applying DNA principles to PCR, electrophoresis and profiling.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Biology SL
Level
SL

Exam points

  • explain DNA replication before cell division using template strands, free nucleotides and complementary base pairing
  • identify one original and one newly synthesized strand and interpret Meselson–Stahl isotope-density evidence
  • distinguish helicase unwinding and hydrogen-bond breaking from DNA polymerase nucleotide addition
  • explain PCR amplification through denaturation, primer annealing and Taq-polymerase extension
  • interpret gel electrophoresis separation and DNA-profile band patterns by fragment size
  • apply PCR, fragment separation and band patterns to paternity or forensic conclusions

Question 1

[Maximum number: 1]

What is required to replicate DNA?

A

Temperature of 37∘C37^{\circ} \mathrm{C}

B

Free nucleotides carrying A, C, G and T bases

C

Plasmids

D

Endonuclease

Question 2

[Maximum number: 1]

Meselson and Stahl grew bacteria in a medium with 15 N{ }^{15} \mathrm{~N} (heavy nitrogen) so that all bacteria in the parental culture contain heavy DNA. They then transferred some of the bacteria to a medium with 14 N{ }^{14} \mathrm{~N} (light nitrogen).

Samples were taken at 0,20 and 40 minutes and centrifuged with the results as shown.

Figure for Question 2 — IB Biology SL

State the conclusion Meselson and Stahl drew from their experiment.

Question 3

[Maximum number: 1]

Outline the role of the following enzymes in replication.

Outline the role of helicase in DNA replication.

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