Final answer:
The common genetic unit used in medicine, agriculture, and conservation applications of biotechnology is recombinant DNA. Recombinant DNA is generated by manipulating and combining DNA from different sources through techniques like genetic engineering. This allows scientists to introduce new traits into organisms, resulting in genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
Step-by-step explanation:
The common genetic unit used in medicine, agriculture, and conservation applications of biotechnology is recombinant DNA. Recombinant DNA is generated by manipulating and combining DNA from different sources through techniques like genetic engineering. This allows scientists to introduce new traits into organisms, resulting in genetically modified organisms (GMOs). For example, in agriculture, crops can be genetically modified to be resistant to pests or herbicides, resulting in improved yields.