Question

A DNA system that is used to trace ancestral lineage in forensic science is called:

• A. Alu repeats
• B. Adipocere
• C. Lineage detection
• D. Latent ancestry

Hint:

Alu elements are human-specific repetitive DNA sequences and are widely used in forensic anthropology and evolutionary studies.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept: Forensic genetics uses specific DNA markers to study ancestry, heredity, and identification. Certain repeated DNA sequences remain stable over generations and help scientists trace evolutionary and ancestral relationships.

Step 1: Understand Alu repeats.
Alu repeats are short repeated DNA sequences present in the human genome. These genetic markers are inherited from generation to generation and are highly useful in tracing ancestral lineage and studying population genetics.

Step 2: Analyze Adipocere.
Adipocere is a wax-like substance formed during decomposition of dead bodies. It is related to forensic pathology, not DNA analysis.

Step 3: Analyze Lineage detection.
Lineage detection is a general phrase and not the name of a recognized DNA system used in forensic science.

Step 4: Analyze Latent ancestry.
Latent ancestry is not a standard scientific term used in forensic genetics.

Step 5: Conclude the correct answer.
Among all the given options, only Alu repeats are scientifically recognized DNA markers used to trace ancestry. Therefore, the correct answer is: \[ \boxed{\text{Alu repeats}} \]