9700 · 19.3
Genetically modified organisms in agriculture — FAQ
Frequently asked questions for 9700 Genetically modified organisms in agriculture. Direct answers first, then deeper explanation — then practise with marking.
What are the main benefits of GMOs in agriculture for Cambridge Biology 9700?
In Cambridge Biology 9700, the main benefits of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in agriculture include increased crop yield through pest or herbicide resistance (e.g., Bt maize), improved nutritional value (e.g., Golden Rice providing Vitamin A), and enhanced tolerance to environmental stresses like drought. To understand these in detail and practice with past papers, check out our free revision course.
What are the ethical concerns surrounding genetically modified crops in A-Level Biology?
A-Level Biology students should be aware of several ethical concerns with genetically modified crops. These include potential long-term human health impacts (allergens, toxicity), environmental risks like gene flow to wild plants, and socio-economic issues such as farmer dependency on large corporations. You can find comprehensive lessons and past papers to help you master these discussions on our platform.
How do genetically modified crops differ from selectively bred crops in the 9700 syllabus?
In the 9700 syllabus, genetically modified crops differ from selectively bred crops primarily in their precision and speed. Genetic modification involves directly inserting, deleting, or modifying specific genes using techniques like Agrobacterium tumefaciens or gene guns, allowing for rapid and targeted trait introduction, often between unrelated species. Selective breeding, conversely, involves cross-breeding organisms with desirable traits over many generations, relying on natural variation within a species and is much less precise. Our premium resources offer detailed explanations and practice questions to solidify your understanding.