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30 — Biotechnology (25 marks) (a) (i) Outline ONE use of biotechnology in an early society - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 30 - 2006 - Paper 1
Question 30
30 — Biotechnology (25 marks) (a) (i) Outline ONE use of biotechnology in an early society. (ii) Explain why the use you outlined in part (a) (i) may be consider... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:30 — Biotechnology (25 marks) (a) (i) Outline ONE use of biotechnology in an early society - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 30 - 2006 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline ONE use of biotechnology in an early society.
Answer
One use of biotechnology in an early society is the fermentation of grains to produce alcoholic beverages. Ancient civilizations like the Mesopotamians utilized this process in creating beer, which was significant for social and cultural gatherings.
Step 2
Explain why the use you outlined in part (a) (i) may be considered an early biotechnology.
Answer
This use of fermentation illustrates an early understanding of biological processes and the manipulation of microorganisms to produce desired substances. While ancient people may not have understood the science behind fermentation, their practices revealed a utilization of natural biological organisms—in this case, yeasts—for food production, showcasing a fundamental form of biotechnology.
Step 3
Describe the procedure used, and outline the results obtained, when you demonstrated the fermentation processes in bread or alcohol production.
Answer
To demonstrate fermentation in bread production, the procedure involves mixing flour, water, and yeast to create a dough. After kneading, the dough is left to rise in a warm environment. This allows the yeast to consume sugars and release carbon dioxide, causing the dough to expand. The result is a light, airy bread with a distinct flavor due to the byproducts of fermentation, such as alcohol and gases.
Step 4
State how using this demonstration increases understanding of fermentation processes.
Answer
Using this demonstration allows individuals to observe firsthand the effects of yeast activity in fermentation. It visually illustrates the conversion of sugars into various products, enhancing comprehension of metabolic processes in yeast, and applies this knowledge to broader contexts in food science and biotechnology.
Step 5
Discuss the impact of the development of recombinant DNA technology on applications of biotechnology.
Answer
The development of recombinant DNA technology has revolutionized biotechnology by enabling precise genetic modifications. This technology allows scientists to combine genes from different organisms, leading to advances in agriculture (e.g., pest-resistant crops), medicine (e.g., production of insulin), and environmental science (e.g., biodegradation). The ethical and ecological implications of using recombinant DNA, including public health and biodiversity considerations, represent ongoing debates in the field.
Step 6
Identify ONE potential benefit of using the transgenic plant.
Answer
One potential benefit of using the transgenic plant is the enhancement of nutritional value. By incorporating genes that increase methionine content, the transgenic plant can provide improved dietary options for animals, leading to better growth and health outcomes.
Step 7
Outline ONE piece of evidence supporting the views of a group opposed to using transgenic plants.
Answer
One piece of evidence opposing the use of transgenic plants is the risk of allergic reactions. The introduction of genes from one species into another can introduce new proteins that may trigger allergies in susceptible individuals, as indicated by the allergic responses linked to the transgenic plant in question.
Step 8
Evaluate considerations relating to the commercial use of cloning or genetically modified organisms.
Answer
When considering the commercial use of cloning or genetically modified organisms (GMOs), factors such as consumer safety, environmental impact, ethical implications, and regulatory frameworks must be evaluated. The potential benefits of increased food production and disease resistance must be weighed against the risks of biodiversity loss, unforeseen health effects, and ethical concerns surrounding genetic manipulation. Engaging stakeholders and transparent risk assessments are crucial for informed decision-making in biotechnology.