Question

Overexposure of animals to X-rays is dangerous because X-rays are known to damage DNA. A direct result of this damage is cells with

a) unusually thick cell walls
b) no organelles located in the cytoplasm
c) abnormally large chloroplasts
d) changes in chromosome structure

Answer 1

Overexposure to X-rays is dangerous because X-rays are known to damage DNA. This damage can result in changes in chromosome structure, which can have several negative effects on cells. For example, cells with changes in chromosome structure may exhibit abnormal cell function, inability to reproduce normally, and in some cases, give rise to cancer cells.

Step-by-step explanation:

Overexposure of animals to X-rays is dangerous because X-rays are known to damage DNA. A direct result of this damage to DNA is cells with changes in chromosome structure. X-rays, similar to ultraviolet radiation, can induce changes at the DNA level, leading to cancer and genetic defects. These changes occur because X-rays are highly penetrating and can affect cells beyond just the surface layers. Therefore, of the choices provided, the most direct result of DNA damage from X-rays would be d) changes in chromosome structure. This alteration in chromosome structure can disrupt normal cell function, inhibiting proper protein synthesis and cell reproduction, which can lead to uncontrolled cell division, commonly known as cancer.