Question 1: Define cloning in the context of genetics.

Answer: Cloning is the process of producing genetically identical organisms or cells from a single parent through asexual reproduction.

Question 2: Explain the main method used in reproductive cloning, such as somatic cell nuclear transfer.

Answer: Reproductive cloning typically involves removing the nucleus from an egg cell, replacing it with the nucleus from a somatic (body) cell of the organism to be cloned, and then stimulating the egg to develop into an embryo that is genetically identical to the donor.

Question 1: If a cloning experiment produces 250 viable cloned embryos from 500 initial somatic cells, what is the efficiency rate (%) of the cloning process? (Efficiency = (Number of viable clones / Number of initial cells) x 100)

Answer: Efficiency = (250 / 500) x 100 = 50%

Question 2: A scientist attempts to clone a gene of 1500 base pairs. If the DNA replication rate is 500 base pairs per hour, how long will it take to replicate the entire gene?

Answer: Time = 1500 / 500 = 3 hours

Question 1: List three key safety precautions that must be observed when performing cloning experiments in a laboratory.

Answer: Wearing protective clothing (gloves, lab coat, goggles), working within a biosafety cabinet, and properly disposing of biological waste.

Question 2: Identify two variables that need to be controlled during a cloning experiment and explain why.

Answer: Variables such as temperature and pH need to be controlled to ensure the stability of the cell environment and successful development of cloned embryos.

Question 1: In a cloning experiment, 80% of the embryos developed successfully after implantation. Out of 100 embryos implanted, how many are expected to develop successfully?

Answer: 80 embryos

Question 2: A study reports that a certain cloning method has a success rate of 25%. If 40 attempts are made, how many successful clones are expected?

Answer: Expected successful clones = 40 x 0.25 = 10

Question 1: Describe one potential ethical issue associated with cloning animals for food production.

Answer: Ethical issues include concerns about animal welfare, genetic diversity reduction, and the implications of creating genetically identical animals.

Question 2: Explain how cloning technology could be used to help conserve endangered species.

Answer: Cloning can be used to reproduce individuals of endangered species, increasing population numbers and genetic diversity, and potentially restoring species that are at risk of extinction.