Question

Two methods of biotechnology used by scientists are described below.

Method X: Used genetic engineering to create a crop of corn that grows faster and is pest resistant
Method Y: Used artificial selection to create a new breed of dog that sheds less

Which method is likely to be more advantageous in agriculture? (4 points)

a
Method X because it increases the available food supply

b
Method X because it protects the corn from diseases

c
Method Y because it increases genetic diversity of dogs

d
Method Y because it increases biodiversity of dogs

Answer 1

Method X, which uses genetic engineering to create faster-growing and pest-resistant corn, is more advantageous for agriculture as it increases food supply directly. In contrast, Method Y, focused on artificial selection in dogs, does not contribute to agricultural productivity.

Step-by-step explanation:

The application of biotechnology in agriculture offers various advantages. In the context of the question, Method X is more directly applicable and beneficial for agriculture. This is because genetic engineering allows for the creation of crops like corn that not only grow faster but also have in-built resistance to pests. This dual advantage helps increase the food supply by improving crop yields and reducing losses due to pests, without the need for as much pesticide. On the other hand, Method Y, which involves artificial selection to breed dogs that shed less, may have advantages for pet owners but does not directly contribute to agricultural productivity or improvement of food crops.

Crops that are genetically modified using biotechnology, also known as GMO (genetically modified organisms) or GE (genetically engineered) crops, can lead to cheaper and more manageable production for farmers. They can be engineered for herbicide tolerance, making weed control simpler, or for resistance to specific plant diseases and insect pests, which makes pest control more efficient and can decrease the use of synthetic pesticides. These innovations through genetic engineering can help ensure food security and are essential in keeping pace with the growing demands for food while reducing production costs. In contrast, while artificial selection as seen in Method Y can increase the biodiversity in dogs, it does not have an immediate or direct impact on food production or crop improvement.

Answer 2

Method X is likely to be more advantageous in agriculture. (Option A)

Step-by-step explanation:

While both methods have their merits, Method X offers more immediate and impactful benefits for agriculture:

Increased food supply: Faster-growing, pest-resistant corn can significantly increase crop yield, directly addressing food security concerns and potentially lowering food prices.

Reduced reliance on pesticides: Pest resistance minimizes the need for chemical pesticides, protecting the environment and human health from harmful residues.

Improved crop resilience: Enhanced growth and pest resistance can make crops more adaptable to changing environmental conditions, leading to greater agricultural stability.

While Method Y focuses on improving specific traits within a species (less shedding in dogs), its benefits are not directly related to food production and may take longer to manifest. Additionally, artificial selection can lead to unintended consequences like genetic bottlenecks within the dog population.

Therefore, considering the immediate and significant impact on food production and resource efficiency, Method X with its genetically engineered corn holds greater potential for agricultural advantage.