Final answer:
Extensive focus on genome mapping is important for identifying disease-causing genes, advancing personalized medicine, improving agricultural practices, and environmental management, which are vital across diverse fields such as medicine, agriculture, and ecology (option a,b and c).
Step-by-step explanation:
The extensive focus on genome mapping applications arises due to their crucial role in advancing our understanding of genomics in various fields, including medicine, agriculture, and environmental sciences. Genome mapping is akin to constructing a detailed map that helps researchers locate genes across the chromosomes, leading to breakthroughs in identifying disease-causing genes and advancing personalized medicine. In the context of cancer, a genetic map can aid in understanding the genetic basis of the disease and developing targeted treatments. For genetically based cancers, finding the specific mutations responsible can inform the development of personalized therapies, improving survival rates and patients' quality of life.
Genome mapping has a broad spectrum of uses beyond human health, such as improving crop yield through agriculture research and utilizing microbes for environmental cleanup. The technology enables the exploration of genetic diversity, disease susceptibility, and responses to therapies among different populations, thereby enhancing the precision of medical treatments and preventive measures. Furthermore, it supports research into evolutionary biology, although it does not predict the exact timeline of evolution.
Hence, the answer is option a,b and c.