Which one of the following techniques can be used to establish the paternity of a child?

The correct answer is C because paternity testing relies on the quantitative comparison of specific DNA sequences called Short Tandem Repeats. While DNA fingerprinting is the general process used, the technical mechanism involves analyzing the precise number of these repeating units at specific locations on the chromosomes. By measuring and comparing these quantities between the child, the mother, and the alleged father, scientists can mathematically establish biological parenthood. Protein analysis and chromosome counting are ineffective because proteins vary based on environmental factors and all humans typically have the same number of chromosomes regardless of parentage.