Final answer:
Bacterial resistance to antibiotics is caused by genetic changes and can be transferred between bacteria. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics contribute to the problem of antibiotic resistance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The genetic basis of bacterial resistance to antibiotics and the processes by which antibiotic resistance genes may be exchanged are important topics in microbiology. Bacteria can become resistant to antibiotics through genetic changes, such as chromosomal mutations or acquisition of resistance genes from other bacteria. This resistance can be transferred between bacteria through processes like transformation, transduction, conjugation, and horizontal gene transfer. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics have contributed to the global problem of antibiotic resistance, creating 'super bugs' that are difficult to treat.