Select all that can contribute to a change in the characteristics of a species over time?
Choose more than 1.
a) a mutation in a brain cell
b) a mutation in an egg cell
c) a mutation in a skin cell
d) a mutation in a sperm cell
e) a mutation in a nerve cell
f) a mutation in a somatic cell
To determine which options can contribute to a change in the characteristics of a species over time, we need to understand the processes involved in evolution. Evolution is driven by changes in the DNA of organisms, which can occur through mutations. Mutations are random changes in the genetic material of an organism and can be inherited by offspring.
In the given options, there are three types of cells mentioned: brain cells, egg cells, skin cells, sperm cells, nerve cells, and somatic cells. Let's analyze each option to determine if it can contribute to a change in the characteristics of a species over time:
a) A mutation in a brain cell: While mutations in brain cells can cause neurological disorders or impact an individual's behavior, they typically do not affect the genetic material passed on to the next generation. Therefore, a mutation in a brain cell is less likely to contribute to the evolution of a species over time.
b) A mutation in an egg cell: Mutations in egg cells can have a significant impact on the genetic makeup of the offspring. These mutations can be inherited and potentially influence the characteristics of future generations. Therefore, a mutation in an egg cell can contribute to the evolution of a species over time.
c) A mutation in a skin cell: Similar to brain cells, mutations in skin cells may affect the individual organism but are less likely to impact the genetic material passed on to future generations. So, a mutation in a skin cell is less likely to contribute to the evolution of a species over time.
d) A mutation in a sperm cell: Mutations in sperm cells, like mutations in egg cells, can affect the genetic material passed on to the offspring. Consequently, a mutation in a sperm cell can contribute to the evolution of a species over time.
e) A mutation in a nerve cell: Nerve cells, similar to brain cells, primarily influence the functioning of an individual organism and are less likely to affect the genetic material inherited by offspring. Thus, a mutation in a nerve cell is less likely to contribute to the evolution of a species over time.
f) A mutation in a somatic cell: Somatic cells are non-reproductive cells, which means any mutation in these cells will not be passed on to the next generation. Consequently, a mutation in a somatic cell is unlikely to contribute to the evolution of a species over time.
Based on this analysis, options b) a mutation in an egg cell, and d) a mutation in a sperm cell can contribute to a change in the characteristics of a species over time, as these mutations can be inherited by offspring and potentially affect future generations.