Question

Which metal ion is required during PCR?

• A. Magnesium (Mg\(^{2+}\))
• B. Calcium (Ca\(^{2+}\))
• C. Potassium (K\(^{+}\))
• D. Sodium (Na\(^{+}\))

Hint:

In PCR, magnesium ions are critical for enzyme activation and efficient DNA synthesis. Too much or too little can hinder the reaction.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a technique used to amplify DNA. Magnesium ions (Mg\(^{2+}\)) are essential for the activity of DNA polymerase, the enzyme that synthesizes the new DNA strand. These ions help in stabilizing the DNA polymerase and enable the correct binding of nucleotides to the growing DNA strand during PCR. Thus, the correct metal ion required during PCR is magnesium (Mg\(^{2+}\)).