Question:

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion A and the other is labelled as Reason R.
Assertion A: A linear DNA molecule containing three recognition sites for a restriction enzyme will generate multiple DNA fragments on partial digestion.
Reason R: Partial digestion by restriction enzymes leads to a heterogeneous population of DNA fragments.

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Partial Digestion = Random cutting. It's like cutting a string at random spots; you get many different lengths!
Updated On: May 14, 2026
  • Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A.
  • Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A.
  • A is correct but R is not correct.
  • A is not correct but R is correct.
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation


Step 1: Concept

Complete digestion occurs when every site is cut; partial digestion occurs when only some sites are cut randomly.

Step 2: Meaning

For a linear DNA with 3 sites, complete digestion yields 4 fragments.

Step 3: Analysis

Assertion A is true: partial digestion will produce not just the 4 final fragments, but also intermediate fragments where one or two sites remain uncut. Reason R is true: this randomness creates a "heterogeneous" mix of different sized fragments, explaining why we see multiple bands.

Step 4: Conclusion

Both are correct, and the heterogeneity (Reason) is the fundamental cause of the multiple fragments (Assertion). Final Answer: (A)
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