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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the ideal temperature for Taq polymerase function during PCR?
A
95°C
B
55°C
C
72°C
D
37°C
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of Taq polymerase in PCR: Taq polymerase is a thermostable enzyme used to synthesize DNA during the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). It is derived from the bacterium Thermus aquaticus, which thrives in hot environments.
Identify the stages of PCR: PCR consists of three main stages - denaturation, annealing, and extension. Each stage requires different temperature settings to facilitate the reaction.
Recognize the temperature for each stage: Denaturation occurs at around 95°C, where the double-stranded DNA is separated into single strands. Annealing happens at a lower temperature, typically around 55°C, where primers bind to the single-stranded DNA. Extension, where Taq polymerase synthesizes new DNA strands, occurs at an optimal temperature for the enzyme.
Determine the optimal temperature for Taq polymerase: The ideal temperature for the extension phase, where Taq polymerase is most active, is around 72°C. This temperature allows the enzyme to efficiently add nucleotides to the growing DNA strand.
Conclude the ideal temperature for Taq polymerase function: Based on the understanding of PCR stages and enzyme activity, the optimal temperature for Taq polymerase during the extension phase is 72°C.