In the 1920s Muller Discovered That X-Rays Caused Mutation in Drosophila

question 45

Multiple Choice

In the 1920s Muller discovered that X-rays caused mutation in Drosophila. In a related series of experiments in the 1940s, Charlotte Auerbach discovered that chemicals-she used nitrogen mustards-have a similar effect. A new chemical food additive is developed by a cereal manufacturer. Why do we test for its ability to induce mutation?

• A) We worry that it might cause mutation in cereal grain plants.
• B) We want to make sure that it does not emit radiation.
• C) We want to be sure that it increases the rate of mutation sufficiently.
• D) We want to prevent any increase in mutation frequency.
• E) We worry about its ability to cause infection.

Describe the fundamental mechanisms of evolution, including the role of DNA in evolutionary changes.

Distinguish between the relationships of various primates to humans based on genetic data.

Explain the universality of the genetic code and its implications for the common ancestry of life.

Understand the factors influencing fossilization and the implications for interpreting the fossil record.

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Definitions:

Independent Variables

Variables in an experimental or observational study that are manipulated or categorized to determine their effect on dependent variables.

Coefficient Of Determination

A measure used in statistical analysis that assesses the explanatory power of a model, typically represented as R².

Residuals

Differences between observed and predicted values in a statistical model, indicating the error or unexplained variance.

Polynomial Model

A mathematical model that represents a relationship as a polynomial equation, typically involving variables raised to integer powers.