In the Paper Wasp, Although All Females in a Nest

question 21

Multiple Choice

In the paper wasp, although all females in a nest are physiologically capable of reproducing, a single female monopolizes almost all reproduction, while other females help rear her offspring. In some nests, female helpers are unrelated to the reproducing female. The most likely explanation for this is that these helpers gain ________ benefits, such as ________.

• A) indirect; an increase in the reproductive output of the reproducing female
• B) direct; an increase in the reproductive output of the reproducing female
• C) direct; the possibility of taking over the reproductive role when the reproducing female dies
• D) indirect; the possibility of taking over the reproductive role when the reproducing female dies

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Definitions:

Current Flow

The movement of electric charge carriers, like electrons, through a conductor or circuit, typically described from positive to negative points.

Electron

A subatomic particle with a negative electric charge, fundamental to electricity, and a key component of atoms.

Atom

The smallest unit of a chemical element, consisting of a nucleus and electrons, forming the basis of all chemical substances.

Knock

A term often used in automotive to describe the premature combustion of fuel in the cylinder of an engine, leading to inefficient performance.