Why Is Quorum Sensing Advantageous to Bacteria When They Are

question 26

Multiple Choice

Why is quorum sensing advantageous to bacteria when they are forming a biofilm?

• A) Larger numbers of bacteria reduce the competition between the bacteria for resources.
• B) Bacteria must produce components of a biofilm. It is a waste of energy if they produce those components when there are not enough bacteria present to produce a biofilm resistant to physical forces.
• C) Enough weak bacteria need to be present so that they can be killed and used as nutrients for the strong bacteria.
• D) It is easier for proper bacterial mating types to contact each other and sexually reproduce when there are larger numbers of bacteria present.

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Definitions:

Perfectly Inelastic

Describes a situation where the quantity demanded or supplied does not change in response to a change in price; the demand or supply curve is vertical.

Labor Supply Curve

A visual diagram that illustrates the connection between the salary provided and the amount of work employees are ready to offer.

Competitive Firm

A company operating in a market where there are many buyers and sellers, and no single entity can influence the market price.

Human Capital Investment

The process of increasing the value of a workforce through education, training, and health initiatives.