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Multiple Choice
Why did Hershey and Chase use the isotopes 32P and 35S in their experiments?
A
To distinguish between DNA and protein in bacteriophages.
B
To track the movement of electrons in chemical reactions.
C
To measure the rate of radioactive decay in cells.
D
To identify the presence of isotopes in living organisms.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of the Hershey and Chase experiment: They aimed to determine whether DNA or protein was the genetic material in bacteriophages.
Recognize that DNA contains phosphorus but not sulfur, while proteins contain sulfur but not phosphorus.
Identify the isotopes used: 32P (phosphorus-32) was used to label DNA, and 35S (sulfur-35) was used to label proteins.
Consider the purpose of using these isotopes: By using 32P and 35S, Hershey and Chase could track which component (DNA or protein) entered the bacterial cells during infection.
Conclude that the use of these isotopes allowed Hershey and Chase to distinguish between DNA and protein, confirming that DNA is the genetic material.