Question

Scientists have inserted a gene that codes for resistance to a biodegradable weedkiller into a certain plant. Which of the following is the most likely benefit of the gene?

1) The plant will be able to convert the weedkiller into fertilizer.
2) The plant will be able to produce chemicals to kill weeds around it.
3) The plant is more likely to survive when exposed to the weedkiller.
4) The plant is more likely to die when exposed to the weedkiller.

Answer 1

The plant with a gene for weedkiller resistance is more likely to survive amid weed control practices, leading to safer and more efficient farming.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most likely benefit of inserting a gene that codes for resistance to a biodegradable weedkiller into a certain plant is that the plant is more likely to survive when exposed to the weedkiller. This form of genetic engineering, producing transgenic plants, aims to create crops with traits desirable for agriculture, such as herbicide resistance. By having this resistance, farmers can apply the weedkiller to control weeds without harming the genetically modified crop. This makes weed management safer and more efficient and ultimately safeguards the crops against possible damage caused by the herbicide.

Not only does this help in effective weed control, but it also contributes to maintaining high agricultural productivity, as it allows crops to be grown in environments where conventional plants would suffer damage from weed management practices. Furthermore, using biodegradable weedkillers that break down quickly in the soil and are non-toxic to wildlife and humans contributes to environmental sustainability.