Explain Why, in a Self-Replicating System (E

question 72

Essay

Explain why, in a self-replicating system (e.g., bacterial populations) in which a member would copy itself every minute, even mutations that have only a slim rate of occurrence could still significantly improve the survival chance of the system.

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Definitions:

Osteosarcoma

A type of cancer that starts in the bones, usually occurring in the long bones of the arms and legs, and is most common in teenagers and young adults.

Leukemia

A type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, characterized by an overproduction of abnormal white blood cells.

Sigmoidoscopy

A medical examination of the sigmoid colon by means of a flexible tube inserted through the anus to check for cancer, polyps, and other anomalies.

Gastroscopy

A diagnostic procedure that involves using a gastroscope to visually examine the interior of the stomach.