Which field of study focuses on heredity and variation and utilizes molecular biology techniques?

The field of study that focuses on heredity and variation is Genetics. Genetics explores how traits are passed from one generation to the next, encompassing the principles of inheritance and the role of genes in biological processes. It examines the genetic makeup of organisms, the function of different genes, and how variations in these genes give rise to diversity within populations.

Molecular biology techniques, such as DNA sequencing, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and gene cloning, are integral to genetics research. These techniques allow scientists to analyze and manipulate DNA, providing insights into how genes influence traits and how variations can result in different characteristics among individuals in a species. This molecular approach enables detailed studies of inheritance patterns, genetic disorders, and the molecular basis of evolution.

In contrast, ecology focuses on the relationships between organisms and their environment, microbiology studies microorganisms, and biochemistry deals with the chemical processes within and related to living organisms. While these fields may intersect with genetic principles, they do not center specifically on heredity and variation in the same way that genetics does.