Which of the following is true about genes? A. Genes are responsible for all the traits of an organism. B. Genes are made up of smaller molecules known as chromosomes. C. In humans, genes are passed to an offspring from two parents. D. The genes of a particular organism can never change throughout its lifetime.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is: C. In humans, genes are passed to an offspring from two parents.
Explanation
Genes are segments of DNA that contain the instructions needed to build and maintain the cells of an organism. They play a crucial role in determining the traits or characteristics of an organism, such as eye color, blood type, and susceptibility to certain diseases. However, it is important to clarify what is true and what is not among the options presented.
Option A claims that genes are responsible for all the traits of an organism. This is not entirely accurate. While genes do influence many traits, environmental factors such as nutrition, climate, and lifestyle also contribute to how traits develop. For example, a person may inherit genes that make them tall, but poor nutrition during childhood can prevent them from reaching their full genetic height potential.
Option B states that genes are made up of smaller molecules known as chromosomes. This is incorrect. It is actually the reverse. Genes are segments of DNA, and DNA is organized into larger structures called chromosomes. So, chromosomes contain genes, not the other way around.
Option C is the correct statement. In humans, each parent contributes one set of chromosomes to their offspring. This means that a child inherits half of their genetic material from the mother and half from the father. This combination of genes from both parents leads to genetic diversity in the population.
Option D suggests that the genes of an organism can never change throughout its lifetime. This is not true. Although the DNA sequence in most cells remains stable, genes can be influenced by environmental factors. Additionally, mutations or changes in the DNA sequence can occur during cell division or due to external factors such as radiation or chemicals.
In summary, genes are inherited from both parents in humans, and they interact with the environment to shape an organism’s traits.
