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Genes with the capacity to relocate within the genome are called:

a) Mobile genes
b) Transgenic genes
c) Retroviral genes
d) Jumping genes

User Rodolph
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Final answer:

Genes capable of relocating in the genome are known as 'Jumping genes' or transposons. They were discovered by Barbara McClintock and contribute to genetic diversity through transposition. There are two classes of transposons, involving different mechanisms for movement within the genome.

Step-by-step explanation:

Genes with the capacity to relocate within the genome are called d) Jumping genes. These genetic elements are also known as transposons or transposable elements. Discovered by Barbara McClintock, transposons can excise from one location in a DNA molecule and integrate elsewhere through transposition, adding to genetic diversity and affecting phenotypes.

There are two major classes of transposons: Class I (Retrotransposons), which move via a 'copy and paste' mechanism involving RNA transcription, and Class II (DNA Transposons), which move in a 'cut-and-paste' or replicative fashion. These elements can also facilitate horizontal gene transfer, helping to spread genetic material across different organisms.

User Jtrumbull
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