Introduction / Context:
DNA fingerprinting is a powerful technique in modern forensic science and genetics. It analyses specific regions of an individual's DNA to produce a pattern that is highly unique, much like a traditional fingerprint. This method is widely used in criminal investigations, paternity tests and identification of unknown individuals. General knowledge questions often ask what kinds of persons or relationships can be identified using DNA fingerprinting.
Given Data / Assumptions:
• The question asks what DNA fingerprinting can be used to identify.
• Options list rapist, parents, thieves and ‘‘all of the above’’.
• We assume that DNA samples can be collected from crime scenes, individuals and relatives.
Concept / Approach:
DNA fingerprinting compares DNA profiles from different samples to see if they match or show biological relationships. In criminal cases, DNA from blood, semen, hair or skin cells left at a crime scene can be matched to a suspect, such as a rapist or thief. In family law, DNA fingerprinting can be used to establish parentage by comparing the child's DNA with that of the alleged parents. Therefore, the technique can identify criminals and confirm biological relationships, meaning that all the listed categories are valid uses.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1. Recognise that DNA fingerprinting produces a characteristic pattern based on an individual's DNA.
2. In a rape case, DNA from the perpetrator may be left in bodily fluids and can be matched to a suspect.
3. In a theft case, the thief may leave traces of DNA at the crime scene, such as hair or skin cells.
4. In paternity or maternity disputes, DNA patterns of the child and parents can be compared to confirm biological relationships.
5. Since the technique applies to all these situations, rapists, parents and thieves can all be identified or linked using DNA fingerprinting.
6. Therefore, the most inclusive and correct option is ‘‘All of the above’’.
Verification / Alternative check:
Forensic case studies worldwide demonstrate the use of DNA profiling to convict or exonerate suspects in violent crimes, including rape and murder. Similarly, courts routinely accept DNA evidence to establish parentage in legal disputes. These examples show that DNA fingerprinting is not limited to one type of case but is a general tool for identifying individuals and determining biological relationships. This confirms the broad applicability reflected in ‘‘All of the above’’.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Options A, B and C each focus on only one category: rapist, parents or thieves. Selecting any one of them alone would ignore the fact that DNA fingerprinting is widely used across all these scenarios. Restricting its use to a single type of case would be inaccurate and incomplete. Hence, while each category individually is correct, the best answer that captures the full scope is option D, ‘‘All of the above’’.
Common Pitfalls:
Students may think of DNA fingerprinting only in the context of paternity tests or only in criminal investigations, depending on what example they encountered first. This narrow view can lead them to choose a single category instead of recognising the method's wide-ranging use. To avoid this mistake, remember that any situation where a person's identity or biological relationship needs to be confirmed using DNA can utilise DNA fingerprinting.
Final Answer:
DNA fingerprinting can be used to identify
rapists, parents and thieves, so the correct option is
All of the above.
Discussion & Comments