Final answer:
The primary goal of the Human Genome Project was to sequence all human DNA, identifying all of the genes within our DNA sequence. It laid the foundation for significant medical advances and the creation of a reference genome. The project also aimed to understand genetic roles in diseases and human evolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Goals of the Human Genome Project
The goal of the Human Genome Project (HGP) was primarily to sequence all human DNA. This included determining the sequence of all 3 billion bases of human DNA and identifying the over 20,000 human genes within this complex molecular chain. The project's broader objectives also encompassed creating a chromosome map to locate these genes on the chromosomes. As such, the correct answer to the student's question would be 1) To sequence all human DNA.
Completed in 2003, the HGP has been massively influential, laying the groundwork for advances in medical and genetic research. Thanks to the sequenced genome, scientists can now more effectively identify genetic disorders and work towards customized treatment options, also known as personalized medicine. The project's secondary goals included understanding the role of genes and non-coding segments of DNA and facilitating the study of human biology and evolution.
The HGP has provided a reference genome that serves as a baseline to compare genetic variation among populations and individuals. Understanding one's genome can determine risk factors for specific diseases, an application that continues to evolve with ongoing research.