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.

VP
Answered by Vlad P. Biology tutor

21632 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What are the steps involved in glycolysis and why does glycolysis occur?


How do fish ventilate their gills?


Describe and explain the series of events leading to excitatory post synaptic stimulation upon the activation of a pacinian corpuscle.


How do enzymes work?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning