Question

a class is studying a population of bacteria growing rapidly over 12 generations, doubling in number each generation. despite the increase in population size, the bacteria show no observable changes in their traits or genetic characteristics over time. this population is reproducing by means of: a) sexual reproduction, which typically promotes genetic diversity b) asexual reproduction, which produces genetically identical offspring c) sexual reproduction, with limited genetic variation d) asexual reproduction, with high genetic variation

Explanation:

Asexual reproduction results in offspring that are genetically identical to the parent. Since the bacteria show no observable changes in traits or genetic characteristics over generations while rapidly increasing in number, this is indicative of asexual reproduction. Sexual reproduction typically leads to genetic diversity, which is not the case here.

Answer:

B) Asexual reproduction, which produces genetically identical offspring