Final answer:
Mutations in Arabidopsis that affect the A, B, or C genes lead to changes in floral structures, thereby providing empirical evidence that supports the ABC Hypothesis regarding flower development.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ABC Hypothesis in Arabidopsis explains how the combination of different genes (denoted as A, B, and C) control the development of flowers. Mutations in these genes can result in flowers with altered structures, thus providing a method to test the hypothesis. When mutations occur that change the function or expression of the A, B, or C genes, researchers observe changes in the floral structures that correspond to the predictions of the ABC Hypothesis.
For example, when the 'A' gene is mutated, the flower may develop structures that are normally only present in the locations where 'B' or 'C' gene products act. Such observations have been made in Arabidopsis and support the hypothesis because they align with the expected patterns. Therefore, mutations in Arabidopsis provide evidence for the ABC Hypothesis, confirming that the specific combinations of these genes are responsible for the development of the various floral organ types.