Of the following traits, which one is acquired (i.e., not inherited)?(1 point)
eye shape
fingernail length
skin tone
number and presence of dimples
The number and presence of dimples is acquired and not inherited.
Of the traits you listed, the acquired trait is the number and presence of dimples. Dimples are not inherited through genes but are instead caused by a variation in the facial muscles. They can appear or disappear over time as the muscles develop or change. The other traits you mentioned, such as eye shape, fingernail length, and skin tone, are generally inherited from one's parents and are determined by genetics.
To determine which of the given traits is acquired rather than inherited, we need to understand the concept of inheritance. Inheritance refers to the passing down of traits from parents to offspring through genetic information which is present in our DNA.
Eye shape, fingernail length, and skin tone are examples of traits that are primarily determined by our genetic makeup, meaning they are mostly inherited from our parents. These traits are influenced by combinations of genes inherited from our biological parents. For example, the shape of our eyes is determined by the genes we inherit from our parents.
However, the presence and number of dimples is an acquired trait, meaning it is not solely determined by our genetic inheritance. Dimples are created by a variation in the facial muscles, particularly the facial muscle called the zygomaticus major. The presence and prominence of dimples are typically caused by a combination of genetics and muscular structure, but they are not strictly determined by our genetic code. Some people are born with dimples, while others may develop them later in life due to certain habits or facial expressions that can shape the muscle structure.
To summarize, of the given traits, the number and presence of dimples are acquired rather than solely inherited.