Without external forces, the third generation of a bacterium and the original parent cell will have approximately matching DNA sequences. (1 point)

25%

O 12.5%

O33%

100%

100%

The correct answer is 100%. Without external forces, the third generation of a bacterium and the original parent cell will have approximately matching DNA sequences.

To determine the percentage of DNA sequences that will match between the third generation of a bacterium and the original parent cell without external forces, we need to understand the process of bacterial replication and genetic inheritance.

Bacteria reproduce through a process called binary fission, in which the parent cell divides into two identical daughter cells. During this process, the DNA is replicated and passed on to the daughter cells, ensuring genetic continuity.

However, mutations can occur during DNA replication, leading to slight differences in the DNA sequences between the parent and its offspring. These mutations can accumulate over time, resulting in genetic variation within the bacterial population.

Therefore, given enough generations without external forces, the DNA sequences of the third generation of a bacterium and the original parent cell will not be 100% matching.

So, the correct answer is not 100%, but rather one of the given options: 25%, 12.5%, or 33%. Without further information or specific context, it is not possible to determine the exact percentage.