Final answer:
The scientific process of giving bacteria the ability to break down oil is known as Recombinant DNA, a type of genetic engineering that assists in bioremediation of oil spills.
Step-by-step explanation:
The technology that allows scientists to insert a gene into the DNA of a bacterium to give it the ability to break down oil from spills is an example of Recombinant DNA. This technique involves combining DNA from different organisms to create a new set of genetic information, enabling the engineered bacteria to perform functions such as degrading hydrocarbons in oil spills that they were not naturally able to do.
This process can significantly aid in bioremediation, which is the cleanup and decontamination of environmental pollutants through biological means. One notable bacterium that is naturally capable of consuming hydrocarbons is Alcanivorax borkumensis. By utilizing bioremediation and genetically engineered bacteria, it is possible to enhance the natural process, potentially cleaning up a significant portion of an oil spill in a relatively short time frame.