Which step in DNA profiling involves analysing and comparing the pattern of bands?

• A. DNA is released
• B. DNA is cut with restriction enzymes
• C. Gel electrophoresis
• D. Patterns of bands are analysed and compared

Answer: (D)

Interpreting the results is the important step here. After the DNA fragments are separated by gel electrophoresis, they form a pattern of bands that can be read and compared. The analysis involves looking at where the bands appear and how their positions and intensities match between samples to decide if they come from the same source or not. The earlier steps—releasing DNA, cutting it with restriction enzymes to make fragments, and running the fragments through the gel to produce the bands—are about creating the pattern. The final, determining step is comparing those band patterns to draw a conclusion.