Question

select the correct answer
which mutation is harmful to the organism?
a. a mutation allowing moths to camouflage better on blackened tree bark
b. a mutation making staphylococcus aureus resistant to the antibiotic methicillin
c. a mutation inhibiting human immunodeficiency virus from attaching to and entering the cell
d. a mutation causing uncontrolled cell division
e. a mutation giving plant leaves a bitter taste to discourage herbivores from eating them

Explanation:

• Option A: Better camouflage helps moths avoid predators, beneficial.
• Option B: Antibiotic resistance helps the bacteria survive, beneficial to it.
• Option C: Inhibiting HIV entry protects human cells, beneficial.
• Option D: Uncontrolled cell division leads to cancer, which harms the organism by disrupting normal tissue function and causing disease.
• Option E: Bitter taste protects plants from herbivores, beneficial.

Answer:

D. a mutation causing uncontrolled cell division