Final answer:
The example of polio and spongy tar demonstrates physical deformities. Exponential population growth can be exemplified by the rapid multiplication of bacteria in a laboratory. The decrease in a major food source for seals, such as due to pollution or overfishing, would likely negatively impact their population.
Step-by-step explanation:
The example of polio and spongy tar demonstrated d) Physical deformities. Polio is a viral disease that can cause paralysis and lead to physical deformities, particularly in the limbs. Spongy tar, on the other hand, is not a well-known term in this context, and it may be a typo or a misunderstanding. If related to tar-like substances' exposure, it could potentially cause physical damage to an organism, possibly leading to deformities.
Exponential population growth is demonstrated in scenario c) bacteria growing in enriched medium in a lab. Under ideal conditions with ample resources, bacteria can double at regular intervals, showing exponential growth.
If the major food source of seals declines due to pollution or overfishing, the seal population would likely be negatively affected, potentially leading to a decrease in the population due to starvation or the need to find alternative food sources.
In the hypothetical research situation described, you would expect that bacterial endospores might be able to grow in both flasks, but the results could depend on the viability of the endospores and the conditions within the flasks. If both sets of endospores are viable, they could potentially metabolize the pollutant in the growth medium, demonstrating their resilience and ability to survive in contaminated environments.