PCR Virtual Lab / Learn Genetics Primers are short pieces of DNA that are made in a laboratory. Since they're custom built, primers can have any sequence of nucleotides you'd like. In a PCR experiment, two primers are designed to match to the segment of DNA you want to copy. Through complementary base pairing, one primer attaches to the top strand at one end of your segment of interest, and the other primer attaches to the bottom strand at the other end. In most cases, 2 primers that are 20 or so nucleotides long will target just one place in the entire genome. Primers are also necessary because DNA polymerase can't attach at just any old place and start copying away. DNA Polymerase is a naturally occurring complex of proteins whose function is to copy a cell's DNA before it divides in two. The DNA polymerase in our bodies breaks down at temperatures well below 95 °C (203 °F), the temperature necessary to separate two complementary strands of DNA in a test tube.
Extraordinary Adaptation The driving force for molecular evolution of translation Peppered Moth Simulation Name:______________________________________________ Objective: Simulate changes in moth population due to pollution and predation, and observe how species can change over time. Introduction: Charles Darwin accumulated a tremendous collection of facts to support the theory of evolution by natural selection. The economic changes known as the industrial revolution began in the middle of the eighteenth century. Instructions: Click the link below to read more information on Kettlewell's study of moths. After 5 minutes record the % of dark moths and light moths - you will need this information later. Peppered Moth Simulation at peppermoths.weebly.com Data and Analysis Read the background information and answer the questions as you go. Life Cycle of the Peppered Moth 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Impact of Pollution 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. Kettlewell's Experiments 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. Birdseye View 21. Final Analysis 22. 23. 24.