Question

Place the following sentences in chronological order to describe how the spread of antibiotic resistance is the result of natural selection.

A) Random mutations in bacteria result in resistance.
B) Overuse of antibiotics kills susceptible bacteria, leaving resistant ones to multiply.
C) Antibiotics are prescribed, exposing bacteria to the drugs.
D) Resistant bacteria survive and reproduce.

Answer 1

Antibiotic resistance is the result of natural selection that occurs when antibiotics are prescribed, exposing bacteria to the drugs. Random mutations in bacteria can result in resistance, and overuse of antibiotics selects for resistant forms of bacteria. The resistant bacteria survive and reproduce, leading to the spread of antibiotic resistance.

Step-by-step explanation:

Antibiotic resistance is the result of natural selection due to:

1. Antibiotics being prescribed, exposing bacteria to the drugs.
2. Random mutations in bacteria resulting in resistance.
3. Overuse of antibiotics killing susceptible bacteria, leaving resistant ones to multiply.
4. Resistant bacteria surviving and reproducing.