Step 1: Understanding PCR.
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is a technique used to amplify DNA segments in vitro. Step 2: Analyzing the options. (A) lytic cycle: Correct. PCR is not involved in the viral lytic cycle. (B) DNA fingerprinting: Incorrect. PCR is widely used in DNA fingerprinting. (C) DNA cloning: Incorrect. PCR helps in amplifying DNA before cloning. (D) gene amplification: Incorrect. PCR itself is a method of gene amplification. Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (A) lytic cycle.