You notice that you and your siblings look alike in some ways, but are very different in other ways. One of your brothers has freckles, but you and your other siblings do not. Your sister has blonde hair while the rest of you have brown hair. All of you have brown eyes. There are several things that account for the genetic variation between related individuals. Look at the diagram. What is happening in the green circle marked "A" and what impact does it have on genetic variation?

Question

Responses
A Recombination or "crossing over" is occurring which increases genetic combinations in the gametes.Recombination or "crossing over" is occurring which increases genetic combinations in the gametes.
B Recombination or "crossing over" is occurring which decreases genetic combinations in the gametes.Recombination or "crossing over" is occurring which decreases genetic combinations in the gametes.
C Mutations occurred which changed the genes in the chromosomes, resulting in gametes that are identical.Mutations occurred which changed the genes in the chromosomes, resulting in gametes that are identical.
D Mutations occurred which changed the genes in the chromosomes, resulting in more genetic diversity in the offspring.

Answer 1

The correct response is:

A. Recombination or "crossing over" is occurring which increases genetic combinations in the gametes.

Recombination or crossing over happens during meiosis when homologous chromosomes exchange segments of genetic material. This process leads to new combinations of alleles, increasing genetic diversity among the gametes produced, which is why you and your siblings can exhibit both similar and distinct traits.