What is the primary purpose of DNA sequencing?

The primary purpose of DNA sequencing is to determine the order of nucleotides in DNA. This fundamental process involves the precise identification of the sequence of amino acids that make up the genetic code. By understanding the specific arrangement of the four nucleotide bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine), researchers can gain insights into genetic information, hereditary traits, and the functions of genes. This knowledge is critical for various applications, including genetic research, medicine, and biotechnology.

Determining the nucleotide sequence not only aids in identifying genes and understanding their functional roles but also allows for the comparison of genetic material across different species, which can help in evolutionary biology studies and medical diagnostics.

The other options, while related to genetics and molecular biology, serve different purposes. Creating synthetic DNA, for instance, focuses on constructing new sequences rather than interpreting existing ones. Replicating DNA for cloning emphasizes the propagation of a specific segment of DNA rather than understanding its sequence. Lastly, analyzing protein structures pertains to proteins, which are the end products of gene expression, rather than directly to DNA itself. Therefore, the action of determining the order of nucleotides in DNA is foundational to all these other processes.