The diagram represents a change that occurred in a pair of chromosomes during the formation of an egg cell.
The alteration that occurred will most likely be passed on to every cell that develops from the egg cell. Why would this type of alteration result in offspring with combinations of traits that differ from those found in either parent?
a
It converts sex cells into body cells.
b
It changes the chromosome number of the body cells that develop from the egg cell.
c
It results in the formation of diploid gametes.
d
It results in new combinations of genes on each chromosome.
d. It results in new combinations of genes on each chromosome.
This type of alteration, such as crossing over during meiosis, results in the exchange of genetic material between chromosomes, leading to new combinations of genes on each chromosome. This can result in offspring with combinations of traits that differ from those found in either parent because they inherit a unique set of genetic material that is a mixture of both parental chromosomes.