Topic 6 - Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria

Question 1

Why can bacteria evolve rapidly?

Answer 1

They reproduce at a fast rate.

Question 2

Describe how some strains of bacteria can become resistant to antibiotics. (3 marks)

Answer 2

Bacteria can develop random mutations in their DNA.
Through natural selection the allele that is resistant to the antibiotic is passed down.
The gene therefore becomes more common leading to more antibiotic-resistant strains.

Question 3

What causes antibiotic-resistant bacteria to occur? (4 marks)

Answer 3

The overuse of antibiotics.
Not taking the entire medication so some bacteria is left to mutate.
The prescription of antibiotics to none-serious situations.
The prescription of antibiotics for the wrong illness eg. viruses.