PCR amplification after 10 cycles
Starting from one double-stranded DNA template, about how many double-stranded copies of the target can PCR produce after 10 cycles at 100% efficiency?
Answer C: explanation for every choice
A
20 assumes the amount grows by 2 each cycle, adding instead of doubling.
B
100 squares the number of cycles (10²) instead of raising 2 to that power.
C
Correct. Each cycle doubles the DNA, so 2¹⁰ = 1,024 copies.
D
2,048 counts single strands (1,024 × 2), or adds an extra cycle.
TakeawayIdeal PCR: copies = 2ⁿ after n cycles.
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Reviewed 2026-11-05 by a medical student. Spot an error? Report it with question ID bb169.