The image represents a pair of replicated chromosomes that are about to under meiosis and produce gametes for sexual reproduction. During meiosis, a process called crossing over can occur. During crossing over, a section of like chromosomes exchanges segments. This promotes genetic variation in life forms. Imagine that meiosis proceeds and gametes are produced. Based on the laws of inheritance, what is the probability that a gamete will end up with a mutated chromosome to be passed on to offspring?

Question

The image represents a pair of replicated chromosomes that are about to under meiosis and produce gametes for sexual reproduction. During meiosis, a process called crossing over can occur. During crossing over, a section of like chromosomes exchanges segments. This promotes genetic variation in life forms. Imagine that meiosis proceeds and gametes are produced. Based on the laws of inheritance, what is the probability that a gamete will end up with a mutated chromosome to be passed on to offspring?

Responses
A 4%4%
B 25%25%
C 50%50%
D 100%

Answer 1

C 50%

During meiosis, there is a 50% chance that a gamete will end up with a mutated chromosome, as there are two copies of each chromosome to begin with and each copy has the potential to undergo crossing over and exchange segments with the other copy. This results in genetic variation and the possibility of a mutated chromosome being passed on to offspring.