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Multiple Choice
Which enzyme is required for the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in organic chemistry reactions?
A
Taq polymerase
B
Reverse transcriptase
C
DNA ligase
D
RNA polymerase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the purpose of PCR: Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a technique used to amplify DNA sequences, making millions of copies of a specific DNA segment.
Identify the key enzyme required for PCR: The enzyme must be able to synthesize new DNA strands by adding nucleotides to a primer annealed to a DNA template.
Consider the conditions of PCR: PCR involves repeated cycles of heating and cooling, which require the enzyme to be heat-stable to withstand high temperatures during the denaturation step.
Evaluate the options: Taq polymerase is a heat-stable DNA polymerase derived from the bacterium Thermus aquaticus, making it suitable for PCR. Reverse transcriptase is used for synthesizing DNA from RNA, DNA ligase joins DNA fragments, and RNA polymerase synthesizes RNA from a DNA template.
Conclude the selection: Based on the requirement for a heat-stable enzyme that synthesizes DNA, Taq polymerase is the correct enzyme for PCR.