An Overview of Ncert Books Class 12 Biology Chapter 12 Free Download
FAQs on Ncert Books Class 12 Biology Chapter 12 Free Download
1. What are the most frequently asked questions from Chapter 12, Biotechnology and its Applications, for the CBSE Class 12 board exams?
For the CBSE 2025-26 exams, the most important questions are typically centred on key applications. You should prepare for questions on genetically modified organisms like Bt cotton, the production of human insulin using E. coli, gene therapy for ADA deficiency, and the principles of molecular diagnostic techniques like ELISA and PCR.
2. Which topics in Biotechnology and its Applications are most important for 5-mark questions?
For long-answer or 5-mark questions, focus on topics that require detailed, process-based explanations. The highest-yielding topics for the 2025-26 board exam include:
- The complete process of producing genetically engineered insulin, including the assembly of A and B chains.
- The mechanism of pest resistance in Bt cotton, explaining the role of the cry gene and its protein product.
- The principle and application of RNA interference (RNAi) in creating nematode-resistant tobacco plants.
- A detailed explanation of gene therapy, using the correction of ADA deficiency as the primary example.
3. What kind of short-answer (2 or 3-mark) questions can be expected from this chapter?
Short-answer questions usually test specific definitions and concepts. For the upcoming board exam, be prepared for questions that ask you to:
- Differentiate between biopiracy and a biopatent.
- Explain the function of 'C-peptide' in proinsulin and why it's removed during maturation.
- State the purpose of the GEAC (Genetic Engineering Approval Committee).
- Describe how PCR or ELISA can be used for the early detection of a disease.
4. How do ethical issues related to biotechnology typically appear in board exam questions?
Questions on ethics are often framed as HOTS (High Order Thinking Skills) or value-based problems. Instead of a direct definition, you might be asked to analyse a situation. For instance, a question could ask you to discuss the arguments for and against patenting life forms or to explain the importance of regulatory bodies like the GEAC in monitoring GM research.
5. Why is the mechanism of RNA interference (RNAi) considered a very important topic for exams?
RNAi is a crucial exam topic because it represents a sophisticated biological process with a significant real-world application. To score full marks, your answer must clearly explain how double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is used to silence a specific mRNA, thereby preventing the synthesis of a harmful protein. Always connect the mechanism to its practical use, such as protecting tobacco plants from nematode infestation.
6. How can I link concepts from 'Biotechnology: Principles and Processes' to answer important questions in this chapter?
This is an excellent strategy to showcase a deeper understanding and score higher marks. When answering questions about applications (Chapter 12), you should reference the foundational tools and techniques from the previous chapter. For example, while explaining genetically engineered insulin, mentioning the role of restriction enzymes and plasmids in creating the recombinant DNA demonstrates a comprehensive grasp of the entire unit.
7. Are the questions at the end of the NCERT textbook for this chapter sufficient for board exam preparation?
The NCERT in-text and exercise questions are the foundation and are absolutely essential. However, they are not completely sufficient for scoring top marks. To be fully prepared for the CBSE board exam, you must also solve previous years' question papers. This helps you understand the question patterns, marks distribution, and the types of application-based questions that are commonly asked from this chapter.

















