Final answer:
The transfer of a free F plasmid (fertility factor) results in the recipient cell becoming a new F+ cell capable of conjugation. An integrated F plasmid within an Hfr cell allows for the transfer of chromosomal DNA, leading to high frequencies of genetic recombination. An F' plasmid, resulting from imprecise excision, carries chromosomal genes that can alter the genetic makeup of recipient bacteria.
Step-by-step explanation:
When discussing bacterial conjugation in E. coli, it's important to distinguish between the transfer of a free F plasmid and an integrated F plasmid. A free F plasmid, or fertility factor, is an extrachromosomal DNA element that can autonomously replicate within a bacterial cell and can be transferred to a recipient cell (F-) during conjugation, turning it into a new F+ cell capable of conjugation itself.
In contrast, an integrated F plasmid, such as within an Hfr cell (High-frequency recombination cell), occurs when the F plasmid has recombined with the bacterial chromosome. This integration allows not only for the transfer of the plasmid itself but also for the transfer of adjacent chromosomal DNA to the recipient.
This results in high frequencies of genetic recombination. If the F plasmid is imprecisely excised, it becomes an F' plasmid, carrying some chromosomal genes that can be transferred to other bacteria, potentially altering their genetic makeup considerably. Integration and precise or imprecise excision of the F plasmid affect the extent and nature of genetic material transferred during conjugation, influencing bacterial evolution and genetic diversity.