Q99 · UPSC Prelims 2022 · Set A · Current Affairs and GK

← Q98 Q100 →

Consider the following statements:DNA Barcoding can be a tool to:1.assess the age of a plant or animal.2.distinguish among species that look alike.3.identify undesirable animal or plant materials in processed foods.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A 1 only
B 3 only
C 1 and 2
D 2 and 3

Correct answer: (d) 2 and 3

Explanation

  1. A

    1 only

    1 only. Barcoding does not date an organism the way rings or radiocarbon do.

  2. B

    3 only

    3 only. Look-alike species ID is also a core use.

  3. C

    1 and 2

    1 and 2. Statement 1 fails.

  4. D

    2 and 3

    2 and 3. DNA barcodes separate cryptic species and can flag undeclared animal/plant matter in foods. Not an ageing tool.

Summary. Official key is (d) 2 and 3. DNA barcoding (COI and other loci) distinguishes similar-looking species and can detect adulteration in processed foods. It does not measure age.

Same topic · past papers

UPSC has asked this before

These previous-year questions sit on the same topic. Open one to practise the earlier ask.

  1. 2018 · Q97 · General Studies · 2 marks

    Consider the following items: 1. Cereals grains hulled 2. Chicken eggs cooked 3. Fish processed and canned 4. Newspapers containing advertising material Which of the above items is/are exempted under GST (Goods and Services Tax)?

    View answer →

  2. 2018 · Q100 · General Studies · 2 marks

    With reference to organic farming in India, consider the following statements: 1. 'The National Programme for Organic Production' (NPOP) is operated under the guidelines and directions of the Union Ministry of Rural Development. 2. 'The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority' (APEDA) functions as the Secretariat for the implementation of NPOP. 3. Sikkim has become India's first fully organic State. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    View answer →

PDF