Get Rs 200 off on Oswal Premium Plan for your board preperatoin! For Class 9th till 12th. Use Coupon Code BOARD200 at checkout.
Biotechnology and its Applications

Class 12 Biology Chapter 10
Biotechnology and its Applications
Important Questions

Explore crucial questions related to Chapter 10 on Biotechnology and its Applications for Class 12 Biology. Tailored to aid students in preparing for the CBSE Class 12 Biology Examination 2024–25, these questions cover vital aspects of the topic. Engage with various question formats to enhance readiness for exams, boost confidence, and hone problem-solving skills. Deepen your understanding of biotechnology with these essential biotechnology and its applications important questions and answers focusing on both vital and crucial aspects of the chapter.

Introduction

Biotechnology and its Applications open the doors to a realm of scientific possibilities, revolutionising industries and reshaping the future. Biotechnology and its applications class 12 important questions explores the manipulation of biological systems for the benefit of humanity. From genetic engineering to the production of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), the study of Biotechnology and its Applications delves into the profound impact of molecular biology on medicine, agriculture, and industry. As we embark on this enlightening journey, we’ll unravel the principles and processes that underpin biotechnology, along with biotechnology and its applications class 12 questions and answers ensuring students are well-equipped to navigate the diverse applications of this cutting-edge science.

What is Biotechnology and its Applications?

Biotechnology and its Applications encompass a spectrum of techniques that leverage biological systems, cells, and molecules to develop products and technologies that benefit society. This chapter delves into genetic engineering, recombinant DNA technology, and the applications of biotechnology in medicine, agriculture, and industry. From the creation of genetically modified crops to the production of therapeutic proteins, biotechnology plays a pivotal role in shaping the modern world.

Class 12 Biotechnology and its Applications Important Questions and Answers

Q1. Which of the following is an example of a transgenic animal?
Options
(a) Golden rice
(b) Flavr Savr tomato
(c) Bt cotton
(d) Dolly the sheep

Ans. (d) Dolly the sheep
Explanation:
Dolly the sheep is an example of a transgenic animal. She was the first mammal to be cloned from an adult somatic cell, using the process of nuclear transfer. The other options, Golden rice, Flavr Savr tomato, and Bt cotton, are examples of genetically modified plants.

Q2. Bt toxin produced by Bacillus thuringiensis is effective against:
Options
(a) Fungal pathogens
(b) Nematodes
(c) Insect pests
(d) Viral infections

Ans. (c) Insect pests

Explanation:
Bt toxin, produced by the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis, is effective against certain insect pests. It specifically targets the larvae of moths and butterflies, making it useful for controlling pests in agriculture. As a result, Bt genes are commonly engineered into crops, such as Bt cotton, to provide built-in pest resistance.

Q3. What is gene therapy?

Explanation:
Gene therapy is a technique that uses genes to treat or prevent disease. It involves inserting a gene into a patient’s cells instead of using drugs or surgery. It can be used to replace a mutated gene with a healthy copy, inactivate a mutated gene that is functioning improperly, or introduce a new gene to help fight a disease. Gene therapy shows promise for treating various conditions, including genetic disorders, some types of cancer, and specific viral infections.

Q4. Explain the term 'biofortification' in the context of biotechnology.

Explanation:
Biofortification is the process of enhancing the nutritional quality of crops through biotechnology. It involves genetic engineering techniques to increase the levels of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients in food crops, aiming to improve their health benefits. An example of biofortification is Golden rice, which is genetically modified to produce beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A, in the rice grains, addressing vitamin A deficiency in populations that rely on rice as a staple food.

Q5. Discuss the role of biotechnology in agriculture, highlighting specific examples.

Explanation:
Biotechnology plays a significant role in agriculture by enhancing crop yield, nutritional value, and resistance to pests and diseases. Key applications include:

  • Genetically Modified Crops: These are plants whose DNA has been modified using genetic engineering techniques. For example, Bt crops (like Bt cotton) are engineered to express the Bt toxin, making them resistant to specific insect pests.
  • Biofortification: This involves genetically modifying crops to increase their nutritional value. Examples include Golden rice, which contains beta-carotene, and iron-fortified crops.
  • Disease Resistance: Genetic engineering is used to develop crops with enhanced resistance to diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi. For instance, Papaya is resistant to the Ringspot virus.
  • Herbicide Tolerance: Crops like Roundup Ready soybeans have been engineered to be resistant to certain herbicides, which allows farmers to control weeds without harming the crops.
  • Extended Shelf Life: Genetic modifications can also increase the shelf life of produce. The Flavr Savr tomato was one of the first examples, engineered for delayed ripening.

Biotechnology in agriculture has led to increased crop productivity, reduced dependency on chemical pesticides, and improved nutritional content of foods. However, it also raises concerns regarding biosafety, environmental impact, and ethical considerations. As such, the use of biotechnology in agriculture is a subject of ongoing public, scientific, and regulatory discussion.

CBSE Class 12 Biology Chapter wise Important Questions

Conclusion

The exploration of biotechnology and its application important questions reveals the transformative power of manipulating biological systems for the betterment of society. This chapter illuminates the diverse applications of biotechnology, from agriculture to medicine and beyond. Platforms like Oswal.io provide a comprehensive collection of questions and materials, offering practical insights to deepen your understanding of Biotechnology and its Applications, including class 12 important questions and answers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ans: Genetic engineering is employed in creating GMOs by introducing specific genes into an organism’s DNA. This can confer desirable traits, such as resistance to pests or enhanced nutritional content, leading to the development of genetically modified crops.
Ans: Restriction enzymes are crucial in recombinant DNA technology as they cut DNA at specific sequences. This precision allows scientists to create fragments with known sequences, facilitating the insertion of foreign genes into the host organism’s DNA.
Ans: Biotechnology revolutionises medicine by enabling the production of pharmaceuticals through the use of genetically modified microorganisms or cell cultures. This approach allows for efficient and large-scale production of therapeutic proteins and drugs.
Ans: Biotechnological applications in agriculture include the development of genetically modified crops with traits like resistance to pests, diseases, and environmental stress. Additionally, biotechnology plays a role in crop breeding for desirable characteristics.
Ans: DNA fingerprinting is employed in forensic science to identify individuals based on their unique DNA profiles. This technique is crucial in criminal investigations, paternity testing, and identifying human remains, providing highly accurate and reliable results.