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Multiple Choice
A scientist has a population of His+ prototroph and His- auxotroph cells and wants to select and separate the auxotrophs from the prototrophs. Which form of selection should the scientist use?
A
Indirect selection.
B
Auxotroph selection.
C
Direct selection.
D
Any of the above forms of selection can be used.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the difference between prototrophs and auxotrophs: Prototrophs can grow on minimal media without additional nutrients, while auxotrophs require specific supplements to grow.
Recognize that the goal is to select and separate His- auxotrophs from His+ prototrophs. This means you need a method that allows only the auxotrophs to be identified or isolated.
Consider the concept of indirect selection: This involves using conditions where only the desired mutants (auxotrophs) are unable to grow, while the prototrophs can grow. This is often done by replica plating.
Understand direct selection: This method allows only the desired mutants to grow, which is not applicable here since auxotrophs cannot grow without histidine.
Conclude that indirect selection is the appropriate method because it allows the identification of auxotrophs by their inability to grow on minimal media, while prototrophs will grow, thus separating the two populations.