Biotechnology And Its Applications Question 59

Question: In a criminal trial in which DNA fingerprinting has been used, a genetic “match” between the suspect and evidence left at the crime scene provides:

Options:

A) definitive proof that the suspect is guilty.

B) a high probability that the suspect is guilty.

C) a low probability that the suspect is guilty.

D) definitive proof that the suspect is innocent.

Show Answer

Answer:

Correct Answer: B

Solution:

[b] Although DNA fingerprinting is a powerful technique, a genetic match can demonstrate only a high probability of guilt since there is a 1/100,000 to 1 / 1,000,000,000 chance that two individuals will share the same genetic profile.