Final answer:
When a somatic cell is isolated, it cannot produce a new organism, while a reproductive cell can potentially contribute to the formation of a new organism through sexual reproduction.
Step-by-step explanation:
When either a somatic or reproductive cell is isolated from a colony, its fate will depend on the type of cell.
If a somatic cell is isolated, it will not have the ability to produce a new organism on its own. Somatic cells are specialized cells that make up the body and perform specific functions. They will continue to function in different parts of the body for growth or replacement of dead or damaged cells, but they cannot participate in sexual reproduction.
On the other hand, if a reproductive cell is isolated, such as an egg or sperm cell, it can still potentially contribute to the formation of a new organism through sexual reproduction. These cells contain half of the genetic information needed to create a new individual. If a sperm cell encounters an egg cell, they can fuse to form a diploid zygote, which has the potential to develop into a new organism.