What does gene cloning involve?

Gene cloning involves creating copies of a specific gene or DNA sequence. This process allows scientists to isolate and replicate a particular gene of interest, which can then be analyzed or used for various applications, such as in medicine or research. The ability to clone genes plays a crucial role in understanding genetic functions, developing gene therapies, and producing recombinant proteins.

By focusing on a specific gene, researchers can explore its role in biological processes, develop genetically modified organisms, or produce specific proteins that might be used in therapeutic contexts. This targeted approach underlines the significance of gene cloning in biotechnology and molecular biology.

The other options do not pertain to the definition or process of gene cloning. Creating energy from water molecules is unrelated to genetics and focuses instead on processes like photosynthesis or electrolysis. Increasing genetic diversity within a population involves mechanisms such as mutation, migration, and sexual reproduction, which promote variation rather than cloning specific genes. Reducing the size of DNA molecules does not represent any established biological process associated with gene cloning, as the aim is not to minimize the size of genetic material but to amplify specific sequences.