haile Photosynthesis, GMOs, and Scientific Methods

These flashcards summarize key concepts from the lectures on photosynthesis, DNA extraction, GMOs, PCR, and scientific presentation methods.

What variables affect the rate of photosynthesis?

Light intensity and CO₂ availability.

Where do photosynthesis and cellular respiration take place?

Photosynthesis occurs in chloroplasts, and respiration occurs in mitochondria.

What are the reactants/products of photosynthesis?

Reactants: CO₂ + H₂O; Products: glucose + O₂.

What are the reactants/products of cellular respiration?

Reactants: glucose + O₂; Products: CO₂ + H₂O + ATP.

What is the expected result of CO₂ levels at rest versus after exercise?

CO₂ levels are lower at rest and higher after exercise.

What is the relationship between photosynthesis and cellular respiration?

They are opposite processes; photosynthesis stores energy, while respiration releases energy.

What color is phenol red in acidic, neutral, and basic solutions?

Acidic → yellow; Neutral → red; Basic → pink.

Which wavelengths do chlorophyll a & b absorb best?

Blue and red light.

What are the sections of a gene?

Promoter, coding region, and terminator.

What are GMOs?

Organisms with artificially modified DNA.

Which promoters are used in laboratory settings?

CaMV 35S and NOS promoter.

What is the vortex used for in laboratory procedures?

To thoroughly mix samples.

What is Chelex resin used for during DNA extraction?

It binds metal ions and protects DNA.

How is DNA extracted from food samples?

Grind sample, heat, Chelex treatment, then centrifuge.

What is supernatant?

The liquid containing DNA after centrifugation.

What is a positive control?

A test that shows the assay works correctly.

What is a negative control?

A test that checks for contamination.

What does PCR stand for and what is it used for?

Polymerase chain reaction; it is used to amplify (copy) DNA.

What components does PCR require?

DNA template, primers, master mix, and Taq polymerase.

What are the steps of PCR?

Denaturation, Annealing, and Extension.

What is the rate of DNA amplification in PCR?

Exponential, increasing as 2ⁿ copies.

What are some benefits and concerns of GMOs?

Benefits: higher yield, improved nutrition, pest resistance; Concerns: potential allergens, ethical issues, environmental impact.

What are the stages of mitosis?

Interphase (G1, S, G2), Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase, and Cytokinesis.

What is gel electrophoresis?

A method to separate DNA fragments by size using electricity.

What charge does DNA have?

DNA has a negative charge.

Where is DNA loaded in gel electrophoresis?

At the negative electrode.

Do smaller molecules move faster than larger ones in gel electrophoresis?

Yes, smaller fragments move farther.

Where can the plant, CaMV 35S, and NOS primers be found?

In the lab’s reference chart or Canvas PowerPoint.

How do you calculate the percent of total cells counted in a stage?

(cells in stage ÷ total cells) × 100.

How do scientists share their findings?

Through WIP presentations, posters, and written lab reports or journal articles.