During DNA replication prior to meiosis, a frameshift mutation occurs. Will this mutation be inherited? a Yes, because frameshift mutations are always passed on to offspring. b Yes, because the error happened in a gamete. c Yes, because the error happened in a somatic cell. d Yes, because meiosis makes exact cellular copies.

Answer 1

The correct answer is b Yes, because the error happened in a gamete.

Frameshift mutations can be inherited if they occur in the germ cells (gametes) during DNA replication. Since meiosis produces gametes, any mutations present in these cells can be passed on to the offspring. On the other hand, if the frameshift mutation occurred in a somatic cell, it would not be inherited, as somatic mutations do not get passed to the next generation.