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A patient with tuberculosis had a persistent cough, fever and weakness - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 6 - 2005 - Paper 1
Question 6
A patient with tuberculosis had a persistent cough, fever and weakness. The patient was treated with antibiotic X and began to improve after finishing the course of ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A patient with tuberculosis had a persistent cough, fever and weakness - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 6 - 2005 - Paper 1
Step 1
a. Explain the most likely reason why the course of antibiotics was not successful.
Answer
The most likely reason the course of antibiotics was not successful is due to the existence of a resistant population of bacteria. Antibiotic X killed the majority of susceptible bacteria, but some bacteria may have had genetic mutations that rendered them resistant to the antibiotic. After the treatment, these resistant bacteria survived and multiplied, leading to a resurgence of symptoms. This scenario is a classic example of natural selection where the antibiotic pressure selects for the resistant strain.
Step 2
b. Describe one important reason for this extensive study.
Answer
One important reason for the extensive studies regarding the conditions in which the transgenic bacteria grew is to ensure that the release of these bacteria will not harm the health of humans, animals, or plants. Conducting thorough research helps identify any potential risks associated with the introduction of genetically modified organisms into the ecosystem.
Step 3
c. What economic advantage would there be in releasing the transgenic bacteria into the environment?
Answer
An economic advantage of releasing the transgenic bacteria into the environment would be the reduction of costs associated with plastic waste management. These bacteria could break down non-degradable plastic materials, thus lowering the expenses incurred in disposing of plastics and potentially creating opportunities for recycling and resource recovery.