Question

could overuse of unnecessary antibiotics result in a population of antibiotic - resistant bacteria?
a. yes, because the antibiotic would select for any bacteria resistant to the antibiotic, allowing only them to survive.
b. no, because antibiotic use cannot influence the population of antibiotic - resistant bacteria.
c. yes, because the antibiotic would trigger mutation in the bacteria, resulting in antibiotic resistance.

Explanation:

To determine the answer, we analyze the concept of antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic overuse selects for bacteria with resistance genes (natural variation exists). When antibiotics are overused, non - resistant bacteria die, and resistant ones survive and reproduce, increasing their population.

• Option A: Correct. Overusing antibiotics selects for resistant bacteria (they survive the antibiotic, reproduce, and become more common).
• Option B: Wrong. Antibiotic use does influence the population of resistant bacteria (by selecting them).
• Option C: Wrong. Antibiotics don't trigger mutations; mutations occur randomly, and antibiotics select for existing resistant mutants.

Answer:

A. Yes, because the antibiotic would select for any bacteria resistant to the antibiotic, allowing only them to survive.