Genetic Modification: Artificial Transfer of genes

Question 1

What is genetic modification?

Answer 1

Introducing a gene into a food crop. Scientists are now able to remove a gene from one organism and them place that gene into a different organism. They can also transfer genes from one species to another and swap one gene for another one.

Question 2

Diagram showing genetic modification

Answer 2

Question 3

What are the four advantages of genetic modification?

Answer 3

1. It would be possible to create crops that are able to survive in different farming conditions e.g. drought. This way the crops produced would have a greater nutritional and economic value.
2. The crops produced could be used to produce energy so as to save natural resources and help conserve the environment.
3. Crops which are disease restraint can be produced.
4. Crops could be modified for an increased yield.

Question 4

What are the three disadvantages of genetic modification?

Answer 4

1. Developing countries would depend less on crops from developed countries. This would mean developed countries would lose income and trade.
2. Due to political reasons there could be bad management and this could lead to these crops not reaching developing countries in an ethical way.
3. Possibility of unknown effects on health from modifying food crops.