2. The following graph shows the number of insects present on a field after it has been sprayed with the same insecticide once per year over four years. What is the most reasonable hypothesis for the increase in insects in year four? (SC.912.N.1.1)

Question

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1 point
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The insecticide used in year four was stronger than it was in previous years
The insects in the field in year four were the same species as in previous years
The population of insects resistant to the insecticide had increased over the four years
Insects from a neighboring field had moved into the area before the insecticide was applied in year four

Answer 1

The most reasonable hypothesis for the increase in insects in year four is:

The population of insects resistant to the insecticide had increased over the four years.

This explanation suggests that, over time, some insects survived the insecticide due to genetic resistance, leading to an overall increase in their population.