What does the process of DNA hybridization specifically help in?

DNA hybridization is a molecular biology technique used to confirm the presence of specific sequences of nucleic acids, such as viral DNA, within a sample. It involves the annealing of complementary strands of DNA or RNA, allowing researchers to identify whether a particular nucleic acid sequence is present based on the formation of stable double-stranded molecules. In the context of diagnosing viral infections or the presence of viral DNA in plant tissues, DNA hybridization serves as a powerful tool, enabling researchers to precisely confirm infection by comparing the sample's nucleic acid to known viral sequences.

The other options focus on different areas of plant science that do not involve DNA analysis. Measuring plant growth rates assesses physical growth metrics, detecting soil moisture levels involves moisture sensors or gravimetric methods, and assessing photosynthetic rates typically employs techniques centered on light absorption and gas exchange measurements. Each of these processes addresses distinct aspects of plant health and agriculture but does not relate to the molecular confirmation of viral presence as DNA hybridization does.