While the organism that resulted in the Irish potato famine of 1845–1847 had long been present, environmental conditions that occurred during this period resulted in the destructive explosion of disease. Indicate what those environmental conditions were and why they resulted in a major disease outbreak.

What will be an ideal response?


A series of very cool and wet summers occurred in Ireland at this time. The cool temperatures favored the production and release of enormous numbers of zoosphores Phytophthora. The zoospores swam in the wet fields from potato plant to potato plant, resulting in an explosion of the disease.

Biology & Microbiology

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Which of the following occurs first during an action

potential? a. Many sodium ions flow into the neuron. b. Voltage-gated sodium channels open. c. A local disturbance triggers the resting voltage to reach the threshold level. d. The interior of the neuron becomes positive. e. The interior of the neuron becomes negative.

Biology & Microbiology

Using breast cancer as an example, describe the importance of understanding the interactions of an individual’s

genotype with therapeutic drugs when treating patients What will be an ideal response?

Biology & Microbiology

Identify two specific polysaccharides and describe where they are found and what their biological role is.

Biology & Microbiology

You can receive public information about your physician from ________

A) the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency B) the U.S. Food and Drug Administration C) the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention D) the Federation of State Medical Boards

Biology & Microbiology