Question

In the lac operon, the product of structural gene lacZ is capable of ________.

A) splitting the linkage of lactose to produce glucose and galactose
B) binding to the operator of the lac operon
C) transporting lactose into the cell
D) forming lactose from two glucose molecules
E) forming ATP from pyruvate

Answer 1

The product of the structural gene lacZ in the lac operon is capable of splitting the linkage of lactose to produce glucose and galactose.

Step-by-step explanation:

The product of the structural gene lacZ in the lac operon is capable of splitting the linkage of lactose to produce glucose and galactose. The lacZ gene encodes the enzyme ß-galactosidase, which breaks down lactose into its constituent sugars. For example, if lactose is present in the cell, the ß-galactosidase enzyme will catalyze the hydrolysis of lactose into glucose and galactose.