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4 votes
Why are offspring different from their parents?

a. Identical genetic makeup
b. Random assortment of chromosomes
c. Cloning process
d. Environmental factors only

User Matt Vukas
by
9.8k points

1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

Offspring are different from their parents due to genetic recombination, crossing over, and random chromosome assortment.

Step-by-step explanation:

Offspring are different from their parents due to three processes: genetic recombination, crossing over, and random chromosome assortment.

  • Genetic recombination occurs when chromosomes exchange genetic material during gamete formation, creating new combinations of genes.
  • Crossing over is when homologous chromosomes exchange segments of DNA during meiosis, leading to the formation of genetically different gametes.
  • Random chromosome assortment occurs during meiosis when homologous chromosomes line up randomly, causing different combinations of maternal and paternal chromosomes in the resulting gametes.
User DonX
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8.6k points
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