Question

A change in a sequence of DNA bases in a bacterial cell has resulted in a mutation. This mutation has increased the ability of the bacteria to break down and digest organic molecules in the environment. Bacteria with this mutation are better able to find and utilize food sources. According to the theory of natural selection, what is MOST likely to occur in future generations of this bacteria? A) The relative frequency of the mutation will increase as time passes. B) Because the mutation has changed the DNA of the bacteria, a new species will be formed. C) Because the mutation is abnormal, the mutation will become more rare with every passing generation. D) Bacteria with the mutation will increase in number until the food supply is exhausted, causing the bacteria to become extinct.

Answer 1

The answer to this question would be: A) The relative frequency of the mutation will increase as time passes. 

Since the mutation increases the ability to break down and digest molecule, the bacteria can consume more type of food, thus their survivability should be increased. This will cause their number become increased over time.
If the mutation cause decrease in survivability, the number of bacteria will become rarer.