Correct Option (A)
Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of Assertion (A).
Assertion (A) states that DNA fingerprinting is a powerful tool for establishing paternity and identifying criminals in rape and assault cases. This is factually correct. DNA fingerprinting analyzes unique genetic markers, allowing for highly accurate identification of individuals from biological samples.
Reason (R) states that trace evidences such as hairs, saliva, and dried semen are adequate for DNA analysis. This is also factually correct. Modern DNA analysis techniques, particularly Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), can amplify minute quantities of DNA from such trace samples, making them sufficient for generating a DNA profile.
Reason (R) correctly explains Assertion (A) because the effectiveness of DNA fingerprinting as a tool (A) is directly attributable to the ability to extract and analyze DNA from various trace evidences (R) commonly found at crime scenes or relevant to paternity disputes. The availability of such samples and the technological capability to analyze them underpins the utility of DNA fingerprinting.
Incorrect Options:
Option (B) is incorrect because while both statements are true, Reason (R) directly explains the utility described in Assertion (A). The ability to use trace evidence is fundamental to DNA fingerprinting's application in the stated scenarios.
Option (C) is incorrect because Reason (R) is a factually accurate statement regarding the adequacy of trace evidence for DNA analysis.
Option (D) is incorrect because Assertion (A) is a factually accurate statement regarding the applications of DNA fingerprinting.