Final answer:
Amniocentesis cannot be used to detect fetal intelligence because it is a complex trait not determined by a single genetic factor. The procedure can, however, detect fetal gender, chromosomal abnormalities, and biochemical markers for metabolic disorders.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student asked which condition amniocentesis cannot detect in a fetus. Amniocentesis is a medical procedure used in prenatal testing to diagnose a range of genetic conditions. The options given were fetal gender, intelligence, chromosomal abnormalities, and biochemicals that indicate an inborn error of metabolism. When discussing the capabilities of amniocentesis, it is important to note that this procedure involves analysis of amniotic fluid to identify genetic health aspects of the fetus.
Amniocentesis can accurately detect the fetal gender, chromosomal abnormalities (such as Down syndrome or Turner syndrome), and inborn errors of metabolism. Moreover, amniotic fluid is a source of fetal cells where chromosomal examination can be executed, and DNA testing can identify if the fetus inherits specific genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis or Fragile X syndrome. However, amniocentesis cannot measure fetal intelligence, as intelligence is a complex trait influenced by numerous genetic and environmental factors and cannot be determined through this procedure.