PCR generates a DNA fragment of a distinct size even when the whole viral chromosome is used as a template. What determines the boundaries of the amplified fragment?
A) The concentration of one particular deoxynucleotide in the reaction.
B) The length of time of the elongation step in each cycle.
C) The position of a termination sequence, which causes the Taq polymerase to fall off the template.
D) The sites on the template DNA to which the specific primers used in the reaction anneal.
E) The temperature at which the elongation step in each cycle is carried out.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sites on the template DNA to which the specific primers used in the reaction anneal determine the boundaries of the amplified fragment. The primers define the start and end points of the amplification and dictate the size of the amplified fragment. The other factors listed do not directly influence the boundaries of the amplified fragment.

PCR Generates a DNA Fragment of a Distinct Size Even