In the medium where E. coli was growing, | Class 12 Biology Chapter Molecular Basis of Inheritance, Molecular Basis of Inheritance NCERT Solutions

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Academic session 2026-27, Chapter 5 in the current curriculum.

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Biology - Chapter Molecular Basis of Inheritance. This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Exercise 1, Question 10: In the medium where E. coli was growing, lactose was added, which induced the lac operon. Then, why does lac operon shut down some time after addition of lactose in the medium?. With detailed answers and explanations for each chapter, students can strengthen their understanding and prepare confidently for exams. Ideal for CBSE and other board students, this resource will simplify your study experience.

Question 10: In the medium where E. coli was growing, lactose was added, which induced the lac operon. Then, why does lac operon shut down some time after addition of lactose in the medium?
Answer:

Lac operon is a segment of DNA that is made up of three adjacent structural genes, namely, an operator gene, a promoter gene, and a regulator gene. It works in a coordinated manner to metabolize lactose into glucose and galactose.

In lac operon, lactose acts as an inducer. It binds to the repressor and inactivates it. Once the lactose binds to the repressor, RNA polymerase binds to the promoter region. Hence, three structural genes express their product and respective enzymes are produced. These enzymes act on lactose so that lactose is metabolized into glucose and galactose.

After sometime, when the level of inducer decreases as it is completely metabolized by enzymes, it causes synthesis of the repressor from regulator gene. The repressor binds to the operator gene and prevents RNA polymerase from transcribing the operon. Hence, the transcription is stopped. This type of regulation is known as negative regulation.

Negative Regulation


Study Tips for Answering NCERT Questions:

NCERT questions are designed to test your understanding of the concepts and theories discussed in the chapter. Here are some tips to help you answer NCERT questions effectively:

  • Read the question carefully and focus on the core concept being asked.
  • Reference examples and data from the chapter when answering questions about Molecular Basis of Inheritance.
  • Review previous year question papers to get an idea of how such questions may be framed in exams.
  • Practice answering questions within the time limit to improve your speed and accuracy.
  • Discuss your answers with your teachers or peers to get feedback and improve your understanding.

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Comments

  • tussi
  • Dec 18, 2016

anything incomplete


  • tussi
  • Dec 18, 2016

nc answer


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Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Biology - Chapter . This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Excercise 1 , Question 10: In the medium where E. coli was growing, lactose was added, which induced the lac operon. Then, why ....

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