DNA Analysis Modern Forensics-Science Used in Investigating Crimes-Relies Heavily on DNA Evidence

question 132

Multiple Choice

DNA analysis
Modern forensics-science used in investigating crimes-relies heavily on DNA evidence. Nearly every cell in our bodies contains DNA, the molecule that carries our genetic information. Aside from identical twins, no two human beings have the exact same DNA. Because DNA is present in our hair, blood, skin, and saliva, we leave traces of our DNA just about everywhere we go. Forensic investigators collect and analyze DNA evidence left at crime scenes to identify criminals.
On television, this process is quick and conclusive. In real life, however, it is much more complicated. If the material found at the crime scene is too small, too old, or has otherwise been damaged, analyzing the DNA can be difficult. Furthermore, if the sample came from teeth, hair, or bones, it must undergo a different type of analysis called mitochondrial DNA analysis, which uses DNA from a cell's mitochondria instead of the nucleus. Matching mitochondrial DNA is often more difficult than nuclear DNA.
Furthermore, forensic experts never suggest that DNA evidence is concrete proof of a suspect's guilt. Forensic science is rooted in probability, not certainty. When the DNA of a suspect is found at a crime scene, it means that the suspect was likely to have been present at the crime scene, but it does not definitively indicate that he or she was guilty of a crime.
Question: What is the best summary of the passage?

• A)Modern forensics relies on DNA evidence. But this is a problem because samples that are too small, too old, or otherwise damaged can be extremely difficult to match.
• B)Investigators now rely heavily on DNA testing. By matching the nuclear DNA that is found in the mitochondria of a cell, investigators are able to determine the likelihood of a suspect being at the scene of a crime.
• C)Because we leave DNA traces almost everywhere we go, it is a useful tool for identifying suspects. By matching nuclear or mitochondrial DNA, investigators can determine whether a suspect was likely at a crime scene.
• D)DNA samples that come from teeth, hair, or bones must undergo mitochondrial DNA testing as opposed to nuclear testing. This can be a problem since mitochondrial DNA testing is often more difficult than nuclear DNA testing.

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Definitions:

MMPI

Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory, a comprehensive psychological test that assesses personality traits and psychopathology.

Computer-Scored

Pertaining to tests or assessments whose responses are evaluated and tallied by a computer rather than by human graders.

PAI

The Personality Assessment Inventory, a psychological test designed to assess personality traits and psychopathology in adults.

Normal Personality Traits

Characteristics that occur commonly within the general population and are considered typical or average.