A protozoan reproduces by binary fission. What will be the number of protozoans in its population after six generations ?

Options

A. 128
B. 24
C. 64
D. 32

Answer

To solve the problem of how many protozoans will be in the population after six generations of binary fission, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Binary Fission**:
Binary fission is a form of asexual reproduction where a single organism divides into two identical daughter cells. This process continues with each daughter cell also undergoing binary fission.

2. **Initial Population**:
Start with one protozoan (the parent).

3. **Calculating Generations**:
- **1st Generation**: The initial protozoan divides into 2 protozoans.
- **2nd Generation**: Each of the 2 protozoans divides, resulting in 4 protozoans.
- **3rd Generation**: Each of the 4 protozoans divides, resulting in 8 protozoans.
- **4th Generation**: Each of the 8 protozoans divides, resulting in 16 protozoans.
- **5th Generation**: Each of the 16 protozoans divides, resulting in 32 protozoans.
- **6th Generation**: Each of the 32 protozoans divides, resulting in 64 protozoans.

4. **Final Calculation**:
After six generations, the total number of protozoans will be 64.

### Conclusion:
The number of protozoans in the population after six generations of binary fission is **64**.

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