Antibiotics can create a selective pressure that favors the growth of preexisting mutants that are already resistant to the antibiotic. This can lead to the evolution of antibiotic-resistant bacterial populations. Antibiotics do not directly cause mutations or increase the rate of spontaneous mutation, and they do not act as alkylating mutagens.

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Antibiotics

Question 13

Multiple Choice

Antibiotics

A) cause mutations to occur.
B) may act as alkylating mutagens.
C) provide an environment in which preexisting mutants survive.
D) increase the rate of spontaneous mutation.

Correct Answer: