Most of the chemical properties of atoms depend on a. the ...

[Bob-Dole]

Most of the chemical properties of atoms depend on
 
  a. the neutrons in the nucleus.
  b. the electrons closest to the nucleus.
  c. the configuration of outer electrons.
  d. the configuration of protons in the nucleus.
  e. the attraction of protons to neutrons.

Question 2

Some commentators have characterized genetically modified food as frankenfood.
 
   Does such labeling advance real discussions of the value of genetically modified organisms (GMO) or accomplish the reverse? Discuss how this labeling helps or hinders rational discussions.

[ndhahbi]

Answer to Question 1

C

Answer to Question 2

Frankenfood is masterly branding. It cuts the floor out from underneath
supporters of genetically-modified food by its very name. This is discussed at length in H.
I. Miller and G. Conko, The Frankenfood Myth: How Protest and Politics Threaten the
Biotech Revolution (Westport, CT: Praeger Publ., 2004). There is no question that the name
evokes knee-jerk reactions in many people.
On the other hand, Jeffrey M. Smith (Genetically engineered crops may produce herbicide
inside our intestines, Organic Consumers Association website,
http://www.organicconsumers.org/2006/article_637.cfm) claims that pesticides (detoxified
in the plant) may be retoxified in our guts.
It is difficult to have rationality when people are irrational about an issueboth proponents
and opponents of genetic manipulation are irrational. What if something bad happens
because of bioengineered food? This cannot be answered by optimists, and it cannot be
ruled out. What if nothing happens? This cannot be at present refuted by pessimists.
Despite the labeling, amazingly, there has been a relatively rational discussion occurring.

[Bob-Dole]

Excellent

[okolip]

TYSM