Humans developed antibiotics to fight bacterial infections. However, some antibiotics are no longer efective in killing the bacteria they once killed. How does the theory of evolution explain this?
The answer is B
The theory of evolution can help explain why some antibiotics are no longer effective in killing certain bacteria. This phenomenon is known as antibiotic resistance. Evolution is a process that occurs over generations, where individuals with traits that help them survive and reproduce are more likely to pass on those traits to future generations.
In the case of bacteria and antibiotics, when antibiotics are used to kill bacteria, they can also unintentionally exert selective pressure on the population of bacteria. Some bacteria may have genetic mutations or variations that make them less susceptible to the antibiotic's effects. These bacteria are more likely to survive the antibiotic treatment, while the susceptible ones are killed.
As a result, the surviving bacteria reproduce and pass on their antibiotic-resistant traits to their offspring, leading to an increase in the population of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Over time, this can result in the continued survival and spread of antibiotic-resistant strains, making the particular antibiotic less effective in treating infections caused by these strains.
To summarize, the theory of evolution explains that bacteria naturally undergo genetic variations, some of which may render them resistant to certain antibiotics. Through natural selection, those resistant bacteria survive and reproduce, causing a decline in the effectiveness of the antibiotic against that specific strain of bacteria.
The theory of evolution helps explain why some antibiotics are no longer effective in killing the bacteria they once killed. Here's a step-by-step explanation:
1. Variation: Bacteria populations naturally have genetic variations, which can result from mutations or gene transfer.
2. Natural selection: When antibiotics are used, they kill bacteria that are susceptible to them, leaving behind those with genetic variations that make them resistant.
3. Resistance development: The remaining bacteria, which carry antibiotic-resistant genes, survive and multiply, passing on their resistant traits to future generations.
4. Selective pressure: The continued use of antibiotics creates a selective pressure that favors the survival and reproduction of resistant bacteria.
5. Antibiotic misuse: Misuse or overuse of antibiotics further accelerates the development of resistance. This may happen through improper prescription, not completing the full course of antibiotics, or using antibiotics in animal agriculture.
6. Evolutionary adaptation: Over time, bacteria populations can evolve to become increasingly resistant to multiple antibiotics, making them difficult to treat.
Overall, the theory of evolution explains how bacteria adapt to their environment, including the use of antibiotics. As bacteria evolve and develop resistance, it becomes more challenging for antibiotics to effectively eliminate them. This highlights the importance of responsible antibiotic use and the development of new strategies to combat antibiotic resistance.