Question

Which of the following statements best describes heredity in organisms that reproduce sexually?

a) All offspring received all of their genetic information only from 1 parent and are therefore identical to that parent.
b) Each of the offspring is genetically unique and received some of its genetic information from each parent, so each has some traits in common with each parent.
c) All offspring are genetically unique and did not receive any of their genetic information from either parent.
d) No answer text provided.

Answer 1

The best description of heredity in organisms that reproduce sexually is that each offspring is genetically unique and inherits some genetic information from both parents, sharing traits with each but not being identical to either.

Step-by-step explanation:

In sexually reproducing organisms, heredity involves the transmission of genetic information from two parents to their offspring. Each parent contributes half of the genetic material, resulting in offspring that are genetically unique. These organisms contain varied combinations of alleles, which are different versions of genes that reside at the same locus on a chromosome. Because of this, the offspring will have traits from both parents, but will not be identical to either.

For every characteristic, an offspring inherits two alleles, with one allele originating from each parent. During the process of meiosis, gametes (sperm and egg cells) are produced. Each gamete will contain one allele for each gene. When fertilization occurs, the joining of the gametes ensures that the resulting offspring will have a combination of both maternal and paternal alleles, contributing to genetic diversity and variation.

The correct answer to the student's question is: b) Each of the offspring is genetically unique and received some of its genetic information from each parent, so each has some traits in common with each parent.