Question #17
Some microorganisms are able to consume and detoxify hazardous substances, so they are often used to clean up industrial waste and oil spills. However, these bacteria cannot survive in just any
environment. What is the most likely method scientists use to increase the effectiveness of detoxifying
microorganisms in harsh environments?
A
Release larger than normal concentrations of commonly used strains of detoxifying bacteria into the
spill area.
B
Use bacterial transformation to insert genes for detoxifying enzymes into bacteria from that
environment.
C
Rely on local populations of microorganisms to adapt to the toxic substances through natural
adaptation processes.
D
Add chemical agents that increase the surface area of hazardous substances exposed to
detoxifying microorganisms.