To determine which options would lead to increased genetic variation in offspring, we need to evaluate each statement:
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Independent assortment of chromosomes during mitosis that creates new combinations of alleles: This is actually incorrect, as independent assortment primarily occurs during meiosis, not mitosis. Mitosis results in identical daughter cells (clones), so this option does not contribute to increased genetic variation.
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Crossing over during mitosis that creates new combinations of alleles in a somatic cell: This statement is incorrect because crossing over occurs during meiosis, not mitosis. Crossing over is a process that occurs in prophase I of meiosis and contributes to genetic variation. Therefore, this option does not lead to increased variation in offspring.
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DNA replication error in a gamete of an individual during meiosis: This can lead to increased genetic variation because mutations resulting from DNA replication errors can introduce new alleles into the gene pool. These errors can result in different phenotypes in the offspring, depending on their effects. Thus, this option does contribute to increased genetic variation.
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Reproduction during asexual reproduction that results in genetically identical offspring: This option does not lead to increased genetic variation, as asexual reproduction typically produces clones of the parent organism, meaning no genetic variation among the offspring.
Based on the evaluations:
- The only option that can lead to increased genetic variation in offspring is 3. DNA replication error in a gamete of an individual during meiosis.
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