Final answer:
In cabbages, genetic material is transmitted from parent to offspring through DNA replication, chromosome segregation during meiosis, and the subsequent fertilization of gametes. Mutation can also introduce genetic variability, although it is not a primary mechanism of genetic transmission.
Step-by-step explanation:
The transmission of genetic material from parent to offspring in cabbages, which are eukaryotes, can be explained by the following steps:
Replication: This involves the duplication of the cabbage's DNA in the parent cells prior to meiosis.
Segregation: During meiosis, the replicated chromosomes segregate so each gamete ends up with a single set of chromosomes.
Fertilization: The fusion of male and female gametes, each carrying half the genetic material, restores the complete set of chromosomes in the offspring.
Mutation: Random changes during DNA replication can occur, leading to genetic variability but not the primary means of transferring genetic material from parent to offspring.
These steps underscore how meiosis coupled with fertilization ensures the genetic continuity between generations and the role of meiosis in increasing genetic diversity, which is essential for evolution.