Question

a genetically engineered corn plant is approved for agricultural use. the plant produces pollen that can make its own toxins. these toxins protect the corn plant against pests and no longer require the application of chemical pesticide. what is a likely impact on the farmer of growing such a variety of corn?

the financial costs for the farmer would be lowered since less crops would be lost to pests.
the financial costs for the farmer would be lowered since more crops would be lost to pests.
the farmer may be held responsible for increasing chemical pollution.
the farmers expenses for pest control would increase due to an increase in bee population.

Explanation:

1. Analyze Option 1: The corn plant produces toxins to protect against pests and doesn't need chemical pesticides. So, less crop loss to pests means higher yield, and no pesticide cost lowers financial costs. This makes sense.
2. Analyze Option 2: More crops lost to pests would increase costs, not lower. Contradicts the plant's pest - resistant trait.
3. Analyze Option 3: The plant doesn't use chemical pesticides, so chemical pollution should decrease, not increase. The farmer isn't responsible for increasing pollution.
4. Analyze Option 4: The plant's toxins protect against pests, so pest population should decrease, and pest - control expenses should decrease, not increase.

Answer:

The financial costs for the farmer would be lowered since less crops would be lost to pests.