Which step is NOT part of the DNA obtaining process?

The process of obtaining DNA typically involves several distinct steps that ensure high-quality DNA is preserved and suitable for analysis. One critical step is extraction, where biological material is processed to release DNA from cells. Following extraction, quantitation is performed to measure the concentration of DNA, which is essential for determining how much DNA is available for further analysis.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) amplification is another vital step, as it allows for the selective multiplication of specific DNA sequences. This is especially important when the quantity of DNA is limited or degraded, as amplification increases the amount of DNA available for testing.

Mixing, however, is not a standalone step in the DNA obtaining process. While it may be involved in certain protocols — such as combining reagents during extraction or reaction mixtures during PCR — it does not constitute a distinct or necessary step in the overall procedure for obtaining DNA. Therefore, identifying mixing as not part of the core DNA obtaining steps highlights its lack of specificity as an independent process in the workflow.