Asked in ETEA MDCAT 2009 2009

The primers used in polymerase chain reaction has a sequence of bases

Correct answer: D. 20

  • A. 8
  • B. 12
  • C. 16
  • D. 20

Explanation

Primers in PCR are typically designed to be 18-22 bases long. This length allows them to bind specifically to the target DNA sequence, providing both high specificity and efficiency at the annealing temperature. Options A, B, and C (8, 12, and 16 bases, respectively) are generally too short to offer the necessary specificity and might lead to non-specific binding or inefficient amplification. Therefore, option D, 20 bases, is the correct choice as it falls within the optimal range for PCR primer design.

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