MyCompetitiveExams Logo MyCompetitiveExams
MyCompetitiveExams Logo MyCompetitiveExams
Search 1,140+ Questions
Chapters, formulas, speed tricks
→
⚡ Brahmastra NEET 2027
720 MARKS

Dynamic 180-question full-length simulator mixed dynamically from all 6 years for 2027 & 2026 aspirants.

Launch Brahmastra 2027 Test →
Start Practice →
100% Free · No Login Required
Q.78 Zoology ⭐ 360° Option Elimination Active
Vault ↗

NEET 2020 Zoology Question 78 Solution

Topic: Biotechnology: Principles and Processes · Official NTA Booklet Code E1
NEET 2020 Zoology Question 78: Cloning Vectors: Origin of Replication (Ori) Controls Copy Number

Question

The sequence that controls the copy number of the linked DNA in the vector, is termed:

  1. (1)Selectable marker
  2. (2)Ori site
  3. (3)Palindromic sequence
  4. (4)Recognition site
✓
Verified Against NTA Final Answer Key
Option (2) : Ori site
📚 Biotechnology: Principles and Processes Easy
📋 Given Parameters & Problem Setup
Genetic Element in Vector Specific DNA sequence
Function Controls the copy number of the linked DNA
Question Objective Identify the termed sequence
⚡

The 30-Second Exam Hall Shortcut: ⚡ "Ori Site = Origin of Replication & CONTROLS COPY NUMBER!"

⏱️ 20 seconds

The Origin of Replication (Ori) is the sequence from where replication begins. In cloning vectors, Ori is also responsible for CONTROLLING THE COPY NUMBER of the linked recombinant DNA! Selectable markers identify transformants; Recognition sites are for restriction enzymes. Mark Ori site (Option 2) in 5 seconds!

1 Recall NCERT text: "This is a sequence from where replication starts... This sequence is also responsible for controlling the copy number of the linked DNA."
2 Selectable marker = Eliminates non-transformants (e.g. ampR, tetR).
3 Recognition site = Palindromic cleavage site for restriction endonuclease.
4 Thus, Ori site controls copy number.
5 Select Option (2) Ori site.
🛡️
Why You Can 100% Trust This Shortcut: NCERT Biology · Biotechnology: Principles and Processes (Cloning Vectors: Origin of Replication)
📐

Step-by-Step Rigorous Workflow & Mathematical Proof

Step 1

Define Origin of Replication (Ori)

Ori is a specific sequence of DNA bases where DNA replication initiation proteins bind and initiate unwinding and bidirectional DNA synthesis.

Step 2

Regulation of Vector Copy Number by Ori

NCERT states explicitly: "This sequence is also responsible for controlling the copy number of the linked DNA. So, if one wants to recover many copies of the target DNA it should be cloned in a vector whose origin support high copy number."

Step 3

Differentiate Other Vector Features

Selectable markers (like antibiotic resistance genes) allow identification and selective growth of transformants while eliminating non-transformants. Recognition/cloning sites are unique restriction enzyme target sequences. Palindromic sequences are the symmetrical nucleotide patterns recognized by restriction endonucleases.

Step 4

Conclude Correct Option

Therefore, the sequence that controls the copy number of the linked DNA is specifically the Ori site.

⭐

360° Option Elimination Engine Key Feature

Diagnose every choice: Know exactly why the right option works and why distractors fail.

4-Option Deep Scan
1 A
✗ Incorrect
Verdict & Scientific Reason:

Incorrect; selectable markers (e.g., ampicillin or tetracycline resistance genes) help in identifying and eliminating non-transformants, not controlling copy number.

⚠️
Student Fallacy (Why candidates pick this trap): Confusing vector selection with vector replication control.
2 B
✓ 100% Correct
Verdict & Scientific Reason:

Factually exact; the origin of replication (Ori) initiates replication and determines/controls the copy number of linked foreign DNA.

💡
Why this is airtight: None; direct NCERT definition.
3 C
✗ Incorrect
Verdict & Scientific Reason:

Incorrect; palindromic sequences are symmetrical recognition sites cleaved by restriction endonucleases.

⚠️
Student Fallacy (Why candidates pick this trap): Confusing restriction cleavage sites with replication origins.
4 D
✗ Incorrect
Verdict & Scientific Reason:

Incorrect; recognition sites are points of cleavage where foreign genes are inserted, having no role in controlling copy number.

⚠️
Student Fallacy (Why candidates pick this trap): Confusing insertion sites with copy number control.
⚠️

NTA Trap Alert: Vector Feature Functional Mapping

Ori = Initiates replication & CONTROLS COPY NUMBER. Selectable marker = IDENTIFIES TRANSFORMANTS. Cloning site = SINGLE RESTRICTION ENZYME SITE.

🛡️ How to avoid the -1 mark: Look for "copy number" -> Immediate answer is Ori site!
📖

Core NEET Syllabus Standard

Zoology · Biotechnology: Principles and Processes Standard Benchmark
Core Scientific Principle Tested:

""

Syllabus Focus: Cloning Vectors: Origin of Replication (Ori) Controls Copy Number
✓ Core NEET UG Syllabus Anchor Syllabus & Academic Standards ↗

Ready to attempt under real exam pressure?

Test your speed and accuracy in the authentic 180-minute timed NTA simulator.

Launch NEET 2020 CBT Test →

Spotted a mistake in this solution? Report an error ([email protected])

⚖️ Legal & Fair Dealing Notice: Sourced from publicly released NEET 2020 question papers and NEET answer keys for private study, research, and non-commercial educational practice under Fair Dealing (Section 52(1)(a) of the Indian Copyright Act, 1957). Not affiliated with or endorsed by NTA or NMC.

Solve 4 NEET Questions a Day — One per Subject

Cover all 1,140 official NEET questions in 285 days at your own pace. Progress is saved on your device. No login needed.