Question 1: Genetic engineering involves modifying an organism's DNA to achieve desired traits. Explain in your own words what a gene is and how genetic engineering can change an organism.

Answer: A gene is a segment of DNA that codes for a specific protein. Genetic engineering can alter or insert genes to produce desired traits in an organism.

Question 1: Describe the role of restriction enzymes in genetic engineering.

Answer: Restriction enzymes cut DNA at specific sequences, allowing genes to be isolated and inserted into other DNA molecules.

Question 2: What is a plasmid, and how is it used in genetic engineering?

Answer: A plasmid is a small, circular piece of DNA found in bacteria used as a vector to carry and insert foreign genes into host cells.

Question 1: If a bacterial cell contains 5 copies of a plasmid and a scientist inserts one gene into each plasmid, how many copies of the gene are present after 10 bacterial divisions, assuming no gene loss?

Answer: 5120

Question 2: Calculate the number of bacteria after 4 divisions if starting with 1 bacterial cell that contains 1 plasmid with the gene of interest. Assume each bacteria divides into two.

Answer: 16

Question 1: Design a simple experiment to test whether genetically modified bacteria produce a new protein. Include the variables you would control and safety precautions.

Answer: Students would grow genetically modified bacteria and control bacteria under identical conditions. They would measure protein production using a biochemical assay. Variables include temperature, nutrient availability, and incubation time. Safety precautions include wearing gloves, sterilising equipment, and disposing of genetically modified organisms properly.

Question 1: A scientist reports that after inserting a gene into a plant, 85% of the plants successfully express the trait. If 200 plants are genetically modified, how many are expected to show the trait? Show your calculation.

Answer: 170 plants (0.85 × 200 = 170)

Question 2: In an experiment, 150 genetically modified bacteria are tested, and 120 produce the desired protein. Calculate the percentage success rate.

Answer: 80%

Question 1: Explain how genetic engineering is used in the production of insulin for diabetics.

Answer: Genetic engineering inserts the human insulin gene into bacteria, which then produce insulin that can be harvested and purified for medical use.

Question 2: Discuss one ethical concern associated with genetic engineering in humans.

Answer: One ethical concern is the potential for unintended genetic consequences or modifications that could be passed on, raising questions about consent, safety, and the possibility of creating 'designer babies'.