Question

Why does the author refer to Thomas Hardy’s poem?

• A. To estimate the role played by direct properties attributable to one’s parentage
• B. To underline the significance of the biological process whereby genetic factors are transmitted from one generation to the next
• C. To emphasize the importance of the total of inherited attributes that rarely come by natural descent
• D. To highlight the purpose of genetic endowment which can traced through the family face
• E. To evaluate the function of genes that are seldom present among the descendants of one individual
• A. They circumvented nature’s constraint of direct descent
• B. They bypassed nature’s laws and produced a natural gene
• C. They invented an imperishable gene which is synthetic in nature
• D. They ignored the theory of inheritance and created an intrinsic gene
• J. They produced a gene which can be preserved permanently
• A. They analyzed the DNA sequence of the synthetic gene in the laboratory for the first time
• B. They contrasted the properties of a synthetic gene with that of a natural one
• C. They created a gene sequence in artificial conditions which could undergo mutation
• D. They produced the first synthetic genome in the laboratory which is analogous to the natural one
• O. They studied the functions of a natural gene and a synthetic gene under controlled conditions of a laboratory
• A. The method of biochemical synthesis
• B. The biochemical machinery of a host cell
• C. The biochemical genome of a host cell
• D. The DNA sequence of a host cell
• T. The synthesized DNA pieces of a host cell
• A. Scientists will invent a mechanism that might trigger a genome and convert it into the bacterium
• B. Scientists will succeed in creating a synthetic genome which has the characteristics of a natural one
• C. Scientists will improve upon the synthetic gene and find an alternative which is akin to the proto-cell of the bacterium
• D. Scientists will prove that the DNA structure of a proto-cell is similar to that of an artificial one
• Y. Scientists will find a way to insert the bacterial genome into the proto-cell and somehow trigger it to make the bacterium itself
• A. Control
• B. Petrify
• C. Bewilder
• D. Challenge
• ^. Demystify
• A. Thomas Hardy’s poem, Heredity, reflects the DNA in a human being’s genome
• B. Creating life in a lab will surely raise pertinent questions pertaining to ethics
• C. Scientists, in future, will be able to create life under artificial conditions
• D. Cloning of Dolly, the sheep, has invited the wrath of people because the sheep soon died a miserable death
• c. Two centuries ago, urea was synthesized in a chemical laboratory
• A. Assembling the complex biological molecule
• B. Gene sequencing
• C. Assisted reproduction
• D. Stitching together of an artificial cell
• h. Inserting a proto-cell into the bacterium
• A. It will invite people’s indignation
• B. It would be a wonderful prospect for humanity
• C. It might change the face of the earth
• D. It will be looked down as a sin
• m. It will prove to be a global catastrophe

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The question asks us to determine why the author refers to Thomas Hardy’s poem in the given comprehension. Let's break down the passage and options to find the correct answer:

1. Context of the Poem: The excerpt from Hardy's poem essentially deals with the continuity of genetic traits from one generation to another, symbolized as the family face enduring through time. The use of poetic imagery illustrates the concept of heredity and genetic transmission.
2. Passage Analysis: The passage discusses the creation of a synthetic genome in a laboratory and relates this advancement to the biological process of genetic transmission mentioned poetically by Hardy. This signifies the importance of genetic continuity over generations.
3. Evaluate Answer Choices:
   • To estimate the role played by direct properties attributable to one's parentage
     : This option is incorrect as the focus is on the broader biological process, not solely on properties tied to parentage.
   • To underline the significance of the biological process whereby genetic factors are transmitted from one generation to the next
     : This option closely aligns with both the content of Hardy's poem and the discussion in the passage about heredity.^[Thus, this is the correct answer.]
   • To emphasize the importance of the total of inherited attributes that rarely come by natural descent
     : This misrepresents the concept since both the poem and passage emphasize natural descent as key.
   • To highlight the purpose of genetic endowment which can be traced through the family face
     : While this option relates to a part of the poem, the author’s primary purpose connects to the broader biological process of gene transmission rather than merely identifying a genetic endowment.
   • To evaluate the function of genes that are seldom present among the descendants of one individual
     : The idea of genes being seldom present contradicts the poem's idea of traits surviving through time.
4. Conclusion: The author uses Thomas Hardy’s poem to underline the significance of the biological process whereby genetic factors are transmitted from one generation to the next. This reflects the core similarity between the poem's metaphorical use and the scientific concept discussed in the passage.

Answer 2

The question asks what the scientists at the J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI) achieved. To determine the correct option, we need to thoroughly understand the work conducted by JCVI as described in the provided comprehension passage. Let's evaluate each option based on the information given:

1. They circumvented nature’s constraint of direct descent
   This option is accurate. According to the passage, JCVI scientists bypassed nature's constraint of direct descent by creating the first synthetic genome in the laboratory. They used chemistry and biochemistry to synthesize and assemble DNA, effectively circumventing the natural process of genetic inheritance from parent to offspring.
2. They bypassed nature’s laws and produced a natural gene
   This option is incorrect because the scientists did not produce a natural gene. Instead, they synthesized artificial DNA fragments to create a synthetic genome rather than replicating a natural genetic process.
3. They invented an imperishable gene which is synthetic in nature
   The term "imperishable" is misleading. While the genome synthesized was artificial, the passage does not state it is imperishable, as DNA degradation still naturally occurs. Therefore, this option is not supported by the text.
4. They ignored the theory of inheritance and created an intrinsic gene
   This option is incorrect as the focus was not on ignoring the theory of inheritance, but rather on bypassing the natural descent process by synthesizing a complete genome. They did not specifically create an "intrinsic" gene.
5. They produced a gene which can be preserved permanently
   Similar to option 3, this statement is not accurate. The synthesis of the genome does not entail permanent preservation, which is not mentioned in the passage.

After evaluating the options, the correct answer is: They circumvented nature’s constraint of direct descent. This choice directly aligns with the achievement described in the passage where the JCVI scientists synthesized a complete genome, bypassing the natural biological descent process.

Answer 3

The question relates to a passage on the groundbreaking work of the J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI), where scientists produced the first synthetic genome. Let's break down the options to find the one that accurately describes the outcome of their research based on the passage provided.

1. Option A: They analyzed the DNA sequence of the synthetic gene in the laboratory for the first time.
   This option focuses only on the analysis of DNA sequences. However, the passage does not highlight a novel DNA sequence analysis as the main scientific achievement.
2. Option B: They contrasted the properties of a synthetic gene with that of a natural one.
   This option implies a comparative study of gene properties, which is not mentioned as the primary outcome in the passage.
3. Option C: They created a gene sequence in artificial conditions which could undergo mutation.
   This option is partly true but does not emphasize the landmark achievement of producing a synthetic genome. The main focus is on creating a complete synthetic genome, not just a gene sequence.
4. Option D: They produced the first synthetic genome in the laboratory which is analogous to the natural one.
   This option accurately captures the core achievement detailed in the passage. JCVI scientists synthesized many DNA fragments and assembled them to recreate the genome of Mycoplasma genitalium, which was verified to be identical to the natural one.
5. Option E: They studied the functions of a natural gene and a synthetic gene under controlled conditions of a laboratory.
   This option suggests functional studies were central to the research, which is not highlighted as the main outcome in the passage.

Based on the passage, the correct answer is Option D: They produced the first synthetic genome in the laboratory which is analogous to the natural one. This finding is supported by the detailed process described in the passage, explaining how the synthetic genome was assembled and verified to match the natural one. Therefore, Option D encapsulates the principal accomplishment of the JCVI research as outlined in the comprehension passage.

Answer 4

The given question asks about the method used to stitch together synthetic DNA pieces in the laboratory. To determine the correct answer, we should refer to the comprehension provided.

The passage describes the process undertaken by scientists at the J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI) in synthesizing the genome of the bacterium Mycoplasma genitalium. Although the DNA pieces were synthesized chemically, the passage specifically states:

"While the DNA pieces were synthesized chemically, the stitching together was done using the biochemical machinery of a host cell."

This clearly indicates that the correct answer is: The biochemical machinery of a host cell.

Let's evaluate why other options are incorrect:

• The method of biochemical synthesis: This option does not fit because biochemical synthesis usually refers to the creation of the DNA fragments themselves, not their assembly.
• The biochemical genome of a host cell: This option is unrelated to the process of assembling the DNA fragments, which involves the host cell's biochemical machinery, not its genome.
• The DNA sequence of a host cell: The DNA sequence of the host cell is not involved in the assembly of the synthetic genome; rather, the synthetic sequences are used.
• The synthesized DNA pieces of a host cell: The synthetic DNA fragments themselves come from laboratory synthesis, not from the host cell.

Thus, based on the passage's detailed explanation and our analysis, the synthetic DNA fragments are indeed stitched together using the biochemical machinery of a host cell.

Answer 5

The question asks about the author's gut feeling regarding the future potential of scientific work discussed in the provided comprehension passage. Here's a step-by-step analysis and explanation:

1. Understanding the context: The passage discusses the breakthrough by scientists at the J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI), who have succeeded in creating a synthetic genome of a bacterium using chemical and biochemical methods. It mentions their potential to advance towards creating life in the laboratory.
2. Key focus: The emphasis in the text is on what the future could hold, particularly in terms of synthesizing life, which is described as making the bacterium from a synthetic genome inserted into a proto-cell. The author refers to this as more than a mere pipedream.
3. Gut feeling of the author: The line "If only we find a way to insert the bacterial genome into this proto-cell, and somehow trigger it to make the bacterium itself!" indicates the author's hopeful expectation that this will be the next breakthrough.
4. Analyzing the options:
   • Option 1 suggests a mechanism to trigger a genome into a bacterium, which is not directly mentioned as the final step by the author.
   • Option 2 describes the successful creation of a synthetic genome, a milestone already achieved, but not the specific gut feeling for the future as per the passage.
   • Option 3 talks about improving the synthetic gene akin to the proto-cell, which is a possibility but not directly the gut feeling expressed.
   • Option 4 suggests proving DNA similarity between proto-cell and artificial structures, an interesting point but not the future focus.
   • Option 5 mentions inserting the bacterial genome into the proto-cell and triggering it to become a bacterium, matching the author's anticipation.
     This option is explicitly aligned with the passage's expression of progressing towards synthetically creating life.
5. Conclusion: The correct answer is Scientists will find a way to insert the bacterial genome into the proto-cell and somehow trigger it to make the bacterium itself. This conclusion is directly drawn from the author's expression of their outlook and anticipation in the given text.

Answer 6

The question asks us to identify the word that appropriately substitutes 'flummox' as used in the passage. Let's analyze the options provided:

1. Control: This means to exercise restraint or direction over; dominate; command. This does not match with 'flummox'.
2. Petrify: Petrify means to paralyze with astonishment, horror, or other strong emotion. This is not a direct synonym for 'flummox', which is more about confusion than shock or fear.
3. Bewilder: To bewilder means to confuse or perplex someone. This is synonymous with 'flummox', which also means to bewilder someone.
4. Challenge: To challenge means to call into question or dispute. This does not relate to the meaning of 'flummox'.
5. Demystify: Demystify means to make something clearer and easier to understand, which is the opposite of 'flummox'.

In the passage context, flummox is used to describe a situation that would confuse or bewilder even an ethicist. Therefore, the closest substitution for 'flummox' in this context is:

• Correct Answer: Bewilder

The passage discusses complex biotechnological advancements that could confuse (flummox or bewilder) even professionals like ethicists. This perfectly fits the definition of 'bewilder'.

Answer 7

To determine which statement is not true according to the passage, let's analyze each option with reference to the given comprehension.

1. Statement: Thomas Hardy’s poem, Heredity, reflects the DNA in a human being’s genome.
   Analysis: The passage begins by quoting Thomas Hardy’s poem "Heredity" and states that it reflects the direct descent of life, drawing a parallel to DNA in the human genome. This supports the truth of this statement.
2. Statement: Creating life in a lab will surely raise pertinent questions pertaining to ethics.
   Analysis: The passage discusses ethical concerns related to synthesizing life in laboratories. It explicitly states that JCVI is engaging with ethicists regarding their work. Thus, this statement is true.
3. Statement: Scientists, in future, will be able to create life under artificial conditions.
   Analysis: The passage provides an account of how JCVI scientists are working towards creating life in a lab, suggesting that it is plausible in the future. Hence, this statement is true.
4. Statement: Cloning of Dolly, the sheep, has invited the wrath of people because the sheep soon died a miserable death.
   Analysis: The passage mentions that cloning Dolly did not raise any outrage contrary to what the statement claims. Thus, this statement is not true according to the passage.
5. Statement: Two centuries ago, urea was synthesized in a chemical laboratory.
   Analysis: The passage states that Friedrich Wohler synthesized urea about 200 years ago, supporting the truth of this statement.

Conclusion: The statement "Cloning of Dolly, the sheep, has invited the wrath of people because the sheep soon died a miserable death" is not true according to the passage. The passage explicitly mentions that cloning Dolly did not raise any outrage, contradicting this statement.

Answer 8

To determine the correct answer to the question "A recently initiated technology, which is ethically acceptable, is", we need to analyze the provided comprehension passage along with the options given. Let's go through the options one by one:

1. Assembling the complex biological molecule: The passage discusses synthesizing a genome in the laboratory from chemically synthesized DNA fragments, but this is not directly referred to as ethically acceptable in the passage. This process is more technical and involves the creation of a synthetic genome.
2. Gene sequencing: Gene sequencing is a well-established technology and is not specifically referred to as a recently initiated technology in the passage. It is a fundamental tool in genomics but not highlighted in the context of the passage's ethical acceptance discussion.
3. Assisted reproduction: The passage mentions assisted reproduction as an ethically and morally acceptable technology. The mention of cloning Dolly the sheep and the ethical conversations surrounding such advancements align with this option being ethically accepted. Thus, this is the correct answer.
4. Stitching together of an artificial cell: While the passage describes assembling a synthetic genome, it also states that this raises ethical questions and requires caution. It is not explicitly considered ethically acceptable in the passage.
5. Inserting a proto-cell into the bacterium: This procedure is mentioned as a potential step towards making life in the lab and is the subject of ethical debate, indicating it is not considered completely ethically acceptable according to the passage.

Based on the analysis above, the correct answer is Assisted reproduction. This option is clearly stated in the passage as being ethically and morally accepted.

Answer 9

The comprehension passage discusses advancements in genetic engineering, specifically the synthetic synthesis of genomes and its implications. The text focuses on the ethical considerations of such advancements and draws a comparison between different biotechnological breakthroughs like cloning.

To answer the question about the author's opinion on human cloning, let's analyze the last part of the comprehension: "Assisted reproduction...has become ethically and morally acceptable. Cloning of Dolly, the sheep, has not raised any outrage, but cloning a human certainly does.”

1. The author acknowledges that assisted reproduction is now accepted both ethically and morally. This indicates a degree of acceptance of biotechnological advances.
2. The passage mentions that cloning Dolly, the sheep, did not provoke any outrage. This suggests that the author sees a distinction between cloning animals and humans.
3. The key part of the passage is that cloning a human "certainly does" raise outrage. This indicates that human cloning is much more controversial and invites a negative reaction from people.

Based on this analysis, the author implies that cloning a human being would lead to indignation, as it moves into ethically controversial territory far more than cloning animals. Therefore, it is evident that the author's opinion is best matched by the option:

• It will invite people’s indignation.

Other Options Review:

• It would be a wonderful prospect for humanity: The author does not express that human cloning is a positive development or a wonderful prospect.
• It might change the face of the earth: The author does not discuss the global impact in terms of geographical or societal transformation.
• It will be looked down as a sin: Although ethical concerns are raised, the author specifically states cloning humans invokes indignation, rather than using the term ‘sin’.
• It will prove to be a global catastrophe: There is no mention of catastrophic outcomes; the focus is on ethical outrage.

Therefore, the correct answer is: It will invite people’s indignation.