Question

why would producing multiple transport proteins be important if there is a lot of lactose outside the cell in terms of keeping the lacZ gen turned on?

Answer 1

Producing multiple transport proteins is important when there is a lot of lactose outside the cell because it allows for efficient uptake and utilization of lactose as a fuel source. By producing multiple transport proteins, the cell can increase the rate of lactose uptake into the cell, leading to more efficient utilization of lactose and keeping the lacZ gene turned on.

Step-by-step explanation:

Producing multiple transport proteins is important when there is a lot of lactose outside the cell because it allows for efficient uptake and utilization of lactose as a fuel source. Lactose is a disaccharide that needs to be broken down into its constituent monosaccharides, glucose and galactose, in order for the cell to use it as an energy source. The lacZ gene encodes ß-galactosidase, which is responsible for breaking down lactose. By producing multiple transport proteins, the cell can increase the rate of lactose uptake into the cell, leading to more efficient utilization of lactose and keeping the lacZ gene turned on.