Question

The basic difference between Mendel's particulate theory of inheritance and the previous blending theory was that the blending theory, but not the particulate theory, maintained that _____.

1) Traits are inherited through particles called genes
2) Traits are inherited through a blending of parental characteristics
3) Traits are inherited through a combination of genes and environmental factors
4) Traits are inherited through a process called meiosis

Answer 1

The blending theory maintained that offspring traits are a mix of parental characteristics, whereas Mendel's particulate theory suggested that traits are inherited as discrete, unblended units called genes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The basic difference between Mendel's particulate theory of inheritance and the previous blending theory was that the blending theory, but not the particulate theory, maintained that traits are inherited through a blending of parental characteristics. The particulate theory, proposed by Mendel through his experiments with pea plants, suggested that traits are inherited as discrete units (genes) that maintain their integrity from generation to generation. In contrast, the blending theory of inheritance proposed that offspring represent a mix of parental traits, effectively creating an intermediate physical appearance without the distinct segregation of traits observed by Mendel.