Question

which of the following is a formal definition? a genetically modified organism is one whose genes have been altered. genes from one species are inserted into a second species. the goal of this process is to introduce a desired trait or characteristic into the second species. genetically modified organisms are those that have been changed in order to produce desirable characteristics, such as disease and pest resistance. genetically modified organisms, also called gmos, are under scrutiny as a food source. opponents say that too little research has been done on the effects of gmos on humans and on the environment. a genetically modified organism (noun) is defined by the world health organization as an \organism (i.e. plants, animals, or microorganisms) in which the genetic material (dna) has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally by mating and/or natural recombination.\

Explanation:

A formal definition typically follows a specific structure. It includes the term being defined (in this case, "genetically modified organism"), its category (noun), and a precise description. The fourth option meets these criteria as it is a direct definition from a recognized authority (the World Health Organization), clearly stating what a genetically - modified organism is in a formal and precise manner. The first option is more of an explanation of the process rather than a strict formal definition. The second option is a partial and less formal description. The third option is about the scrutiny of GMOs as a food source, not a definition.

Answer:

The fourth option: "A genetically modified organism (noun) is defined by the World Health Organization as an 'organism (i.e. plants, animals, or microorganisms) in which the genetic material (DNA) has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally by mating and/or natural recombination.'"