Consider the following experiment. First, large populations of two mutant strains of Escherichia coli are mixed, each requiring a different, single amino acid. After plating them onto a minimal medium, 45 colonies grew. Which of the following may explain this result?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Recombination between the two strains could allow for the exchange of genetic material, potentially restoring the ability to synthesize the required amino acids. Back mutation could also occur, where a mutation reverses the original mutation, restoring function. Both scenarios could lead to colony growth on minimal medium.

Consider the Following Experiment