Consider the model of bacterial resistance to antibiotics. Use the Roman numerals (I - III) to guide you through the steps, describe how a scientists would explain how natural selection contributes to antibiotic resistance.
Responses
A There is a change in the environment when an antibiotic is added. Some of the bacteria adapt to the new environment. They survive and reproduce.There is a change in the environment when an antibiotic is added. Some of the bacteria adapt to the new environment. They survive and reproduce.
B In any population variation exists. Most bacteria die when exposed to an antibiotic but some survive because they are resistant. They survive and reproduce.In any population variation exists. Most bacteria die when exposed to an antibiotic but some survive because they are resistant. They survive and reproduce.
C In a population of bacteria that are exposed to antibiotics some bacteria are able to change their genetic make-up and survive. The new genotype is passed on to offspring.In a population of bacteria that are exposed to antibiotics some bacteria are able to change their genetic make-up and survive. The new genotype is passed on to offspring.
D Sexual reproduction of bacteria cause variations. Some bacteria survive antibiotics and some do not. Eventually because of sexual reproduction over time all of the bacteria will become extinct.
I - In any population variation exists. Most bacteria die when exposed to an antibiotic but some survive because they are resistant. They survive and reproduce.
II - In a population of bacteria that are exposed to antibiotics, some bacteria are able to change their genetic make-up and survive. The new genotype is passed on to offspring.
III - There is a change in the environment when an antibiotic is added. Some of the bacteria adapt to the new environment. They survive and reproduce.
Therefore, scientists would explain that natural selection contributes to antibiotic resistance by stating that variations within bacterial populations allow some bacteria to survive exposure to antibiotics due to genetic changes. These resistant bacteria then reproduce and pass on their resistance traits to future generations, leading to an increase in antibiotic-resistant bacterial populations over time.