Question 16

Plasmids are the pieces of DNA resulting from bacterial genetic exchange.

Plasmids are small, circular pieces of DNA that can be exchanged between bacteria during asexual reproduction, specifically through processes like binary fission. This genetic exchange allows bacteria to share traits such as antibiotic resistance.

A) ribosomes

Ribosomes are cellular structures responsible for protein synthesis and do not play a role in the exchange of genetic material among bacteria. Therefore, this option is incorrect in the context of bacterial DNA exchange.

B) plasmids

Plasmids are indeed the correct choice, as they are the small circular DNA molecules that can be transferred between bacteria. They facilitate horizontal gene transfer, which is a key mechanism in bacterial evolution and adaptation.

C) pilus

A pilus is a hair-like structure on the surface of bacteria that facilitates attachment to other cells and can be involved in the transfer of genetic material, but it is not a piece of DNA itself. Thus, this option does not accurately answer the question regarding the pieces of DNA exchanged.

D) prokaryotes

Prokaryotes refer to a category of organisms, including bacteria, characterized by the absence of a nucleus. This term describes the type of organisms but does not specifically refer to the DNA structures exchanged during reproduction, making it an incorrect choice for this question.

Conclusion

Plasmids are the correct answer as they specifically denote the small circular DNA that can be exchanged among bacteria. The other options fail to represent the concept of genetic exchange accurately; ribosomes are for protein synthesis, pilus is a structure involved in transfer but not DNA itself, and prokaryotes describe a group of organisms rather than a type of DNA.