Question

An experiment involves a species of flies divided into two populations. Population A is exposed to X-ray radiation, while Population B is not exposed to the radiation. Population A exhibits amutation, while Population B exhibits no mutation. Both populations are then allowed to reproduce under normal conditions. Twenty generations later, the descendants of Population Aexhibit the same mutation as the original population, while the descendants of Population B do not. Which claim can Aditi make based on the results from this experiment?A.Mutations caused by environmental factors are detrimental to the organisms.B.Mutations caused by environmental factors can be inheritable.C.Mutations caused by environmental factors negatively affect reproduction rate.D.Mutations caused by environmental factors cannot be passed onto the next generation.

Answer 1

Mutations

Mutations are changes that occur in the genetic material of an individual or a population.

Mutations can be spontaneous when a variation in the DNA replication process generates a change in the genetic material, or they can be acquired by external factors, such as radiation.

When there is a change in the genetic code of individuals, this change will also be passed on to their descendants. Therefore, it is hereditary.

Analyzing the exercise, we have that the answer is option "B" is correct because mutations induced by external factors can be hereditary, so it affected the entire population A.