Question

question 7 (multiple choice worth 4 points)
(06.01 hc)

two methods of biotechnology used by scientists are described below.

method x: used genetic engineering to create a crop of corn that grows faster and is pest resistant
method y: used artificial selection to create a new breed of dog that sheds less

which method is likely to be more advantageous in agriculture?

method x because it increases the available food supply
method x because it protects the corn from diseases
method y because it increases genetic diversity of dogs
method y because it increases biodiversity of dogs

Explanation:

Analyze the agricultural context of the methods

Using the Agricultural Biotechnology Impact knowledge point
The question asks which biotechnology method is more advantageous in agriculture. Method X involves creating a crop of corn that grows faster and is pest-resistant. Method Y involves breeding a dog that sheds less. Agriculture focuses on food production, crop yields, and farming efficiency. Therefore, Method X (improving corn crops) is directly related to agriculture, whereas Method Y (breeding domestic dogs) is related to companion animals.

Evaluate the options for Method X

Using the Genetic Engineering and Artificial Selection knowledge points

• Option 1 states: "Method X because it increases the available food supply." Since corn is a major global food crop, growing faster and resisting pests directly increases crop yields and food availability.
• Option 2 states: "Method X because it protects the corn from diseases." The description of Method X specifies "pest resistant," not disease resistant.
• Options 3 and 4 focus on Method Y (dogs), which is not an agricultural crop advantage.

Thus, Option 1 is the most accurate and logical choice.

Answer:

• Method X because it increases the available food supply (Correct answer)
• Method X because it protects the corn from diseases
• Method Y because it increases genetic diversity of dogs
• Method Y because it increases biodiversity of dogs