Use the example of antibiotic resistant bacteria to explain directional selection.

DNA mutations happen randomly during division by mitosis. Some of these mutations code for antibiotic resistance. When a bacterial colony is exposed to antibiotics most bacteria without the resistance mutation will die - the antibiotics are a selection pressure. As a result, the bacteria with antibiotic resistence have a higher chance of surviving and dividing to create offspring. Over many generations, antibiotic resistance mutation will become more and more frequent - this is directional selection.

Answered by Vlad P. Biology tutor

18531 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe the process of synaptic transmission with regard to action potentials


Why does the enzyme Maltase catalyse only the hydrolysis of maltose.


Describe the cardiac cycle, including the role that valves and pressure differences play in this process.


What different forms of RNA are found in a cell and what are their functions?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences