5

Set 1: Command of Evidence (Intermediate)

Explanation

Answer: A

PASSAGE

Antibiotic resistance is a growing crisis. Bacteria can share resistance genes through a process called conjugation. In a lab experiment, resistant bacteria were mixed with non-resistant ones. After 24 hours, 80% of the previously non-resistant bacteria were found to be resistant.

What does the experiment demonstrate?

A. Bacteria can spontaneously generate resistance.✓ Correct
B. The resistance was likely transferred via conjugation.
C. Antibiotics cause bacteria to die instantly.
D. Mixing bacteria stops them from reproducing.

Detailed Explanation

The text introduces 'conjugation' as a way to share genes. The experiment shows non-resistant bacteria becoming resistant after mixing. This transfer is consistent with the described process of conjugation.

Key Evidence:

• "share resistance genes... called conjugation"

• "mixed... found to be resistant"

Why others are wrong: A (They were mixed with resistant ones, implying transfer, not spontaneous generation.), C (No antibiotics were used in the description.), D (The population clearly changed traits, implying activity.).

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