Question

Fingerprint pattern is inherited, but also affected by the environment. An example of how the environment naturally can alter fingerprint pattern is:

a) Exposure to sunlight
b) Daily exercise
c) Dietary choices
d) Handwashing habits

Answer 1

Environmental factors can affect how genes are expressed in fingerprints, with 'exposure to sunlight' being a natural example that could alter fingerprint patterns due to potential skin damage and scarring on fingertips.

Step-by-step explanation:

Environmental Effects on Fingerprint Patterns
The question touches on the interaction between genetics and environment in the formation of fingerprint patterns. Fingerprints are indeed largely determined by genetics but can also be affected by environmental factors. In this scenario, the option that represents a natural environmental factor that could alter fingerprint pattern is exposure to sunlight. The environment can play a role in the expression of genes and consequently, the phenotype, which includes characteristics like skin color and potentially, fingerprint details.
For instance, excessive exposure to sunlight can cause skin damage, leading to scarring, which might then alter fingerprint patterns if the damage occurs on the fingertips. In contrast, daily exercise, dietary choices, and handwashing habits are less likely to have any permanent effects on the patterns of an individual's fingerprints. Therefore, while choices like diet and hygiene can influence overall health, they do not typically cause changes to the ridges and patterns that comprise one's fingerprints.