Which is the most likely explanation for a child exhibiting a heritable trait that neither parent exhibits?(1 point)
The most likely explanation for a child exhibiting a heritable trait that neither parent exhibits is that both parents are carriers of the trait but do not show any external signs or symptoms of it. In this case, the child inherits the trait from both parents, resulting in it being expressed in the child even though neither parent exhibits it.
The most likely explanation for a child exhibiting a heritable trait that neither parent exhibits is that the trait is a result of a mutation in the child's genes. Mutations can occur spontaneously and result in new traits that are not present in either parent. These mutations can be passed on to future generations, leading to the appearance of heritable traits that are not seen in the parents.
The most likely explanation for a child exhibiting a heritable trait that neither parent exhibits is through the process of genetic mutation. Genetic mutations are random changes or alterations in the DNA sequence that can occur during the formation of sperm and egg cells, or even early on in embryonic development. These mutations can result in the appearance of new traits that were not present in either parent's genomes.
To understand this concept further, we should consider the basics of inheritance. Traits are passed down from parents to their offspring through genes, which are segments of DNA that contain instructions for specific traits. In a typical scenario, a child inherits half of their genes from their mother and the other half from their father.
However, occasionally, genetic mutations can occur spontaneously in the germ cells (sperm and egg cells) of the parents or even in the developing embryo itself. These mutations can introduce new genetic variations that differ from either parent's genetic makeup. When these mutated genes are passed on to the child, they may manifest as heritable traits that are not present in either parent.
It's important to note that genetic mutations can occur randomly and are not necessarily influenced by the traits or characteristics of the parents. Thus, the occurrence of a heritable trait in a child that neither parent exhibits is most likely attributed to a spontaneous genetic mutation.