5
Use the information and table to answer the following question.
In 2002 several researchers set out to determine a link between air pollution and genetic mutations. Their study consisted of mice living varying distances from air-polluting steel mills. Mice were either placed in labs within close proximity to steel mills (steel mice) or placed in a rural area outside of the city (rural mice). An adapted version of their original results is shown:
Based on the results of this study, which answer choice is the BEST interpretation of the data that should be communicated to the public?
Air pollution affects the organism’s ability to produce offspring.
Air pollution can cause mutations that can be passed to offspring.
Air pollution is only found in cities that have steel mills.
Air pollution does not impact the mutation rates of parents and offspring.
