Which statement below correctly describes a component of sexual reproduction? (1 point)
Each parent has two alleles and they pass both down to their offspring.
Each parent has two alleles per trait and passes one allele to their offspring.
Only dominant alleles are passed to offspring.
One parent passes down the majority of genes an offspring will receive.
Each parent has two alleles per trait and passes one allele to their offspring.
The statement that correctly describes a component of sexual reproduction is:
Each parent has two alleles per trait and passes one allele to their offspring.
To determine the correct answer, let's break down the options one by one.
Option 1: "Each parent has two alleles and they pass both down to their offspring."
This statement is incorrect because each parent actually passes only one allele to their offspring for each trait. This is known as the law of segregation.
Option 2: "Each parent has two alleles per trait and passes one allele to their offspring."
This statement is correct. In sexual reproduction, each parent has two alleles (versions of a gene) for each trait. During the formation of gametes (sperm and eggs), these alleles segregate so that each gamete carries only one allele. When fertilization occurs, one allele from each parent combines to form the offspring's unique genetic makeup.
Option 3: "Only dominant alleles are passed to offspring."
This statement is incorrect because in sexual reproduction, both dominant and recessive alleles can be passed on. The dominant allele is expressed when an individual carries at least one copy of it, while the recessive allele is only expressed when an individual carries two copies of it.
Option 4: "One parent passes down the majority of genes an offspring will receive."
This statement is incorrect because both parents contribute an equal number of genes to their offspring. Each parent passes down half of their genetic material to their offspring, ensuring genetic diversity in the population.
Therefore, the correct answer is option 2: "Each parent has two alleles per trait and passes one allele to their offspring."