Question

Why do mutations in somatic cells not get passed on to offspring?(1 point)ResponsesMutations in somatic cells are not transmitted to gametes, which are necessary for reproduction.Mutations in somatic cells are not transmitted to gametes, which are necessary for reproduction.Somatic cell mutations are always corrected by cellular mechanisms, which prevents them from being passed on during reproduction.Somatic cell mutations are always corrected by cellular mechanisms, which prevents them from being passed on during reproduction.Mutations in somatic cells affect both somatic cells and gametes, which cancels out the mutations involved in reproduction.Mutations in somatic cells affect both somatic cells and gametes, which cancels out the mutations involved in reproduction.Somatic cell mutations do not occur during meiosis, which is necessary for producing gametes.

Answer 1

Correct answer: Mutations in somatic cells are not transmitted to gametes, which are necessary for reproduction.

Explanation: Only mutations in germline cells (cells that give rise to sperm or eggs) can be inherited by offspring. Somatic mutations occur in body cells and are not present in the gametes, so they are not passed on. (Rare exceptions occur if a mutation arises early in development and becomes part of the germline.)