Question

Nylon is a human-made plastic that is used in many products. Researchers studying wastewater near a nylon factory discover a bacteria species that can eat nylon materials. Upon further study, it is found that the reason for this unique ability is due to a mutation in the bacteria’s genes that creates a special protein to digest the nylon.

Which type of mutation occurs in the bacteria to digest the nylon, and why?


Harmful mutation; it causes more pollution to enter the water from the bacteria.


Harmful mutation; it reduces the amount of water absorbed by the bacteria.


Beneficial mutation; it alters the structure of the bacteria.


Beneficial mutation; it provides an additional source of energy for the bacteria.

Answer 1

Beneficial mutation; it provides an additional source of energy for the bacteria.

Explanation: the mutation produced a new or altered protein (an enzyme) that can break down nylon. In an environment with nylon waste, that ability is advantageous because it lets the bacteria use nylon as a food/energy source. The other choices describe harmful effects or vague structural changes and do not fit this scenario.