Identify the mutation below that would be passed on to living offspring if it happened in a parent.(1 point)

Question

Responses

an insertion mutation in a gamete that deactivates a gene for hair color
an insertion mutation in a gamete that deactivates a gene for hair color

a substitution error that takes place in a somatic cells that causes skin cancer
a substitution error that takes place in a somatic cells that causes skin cancer

a silent mutation in the genes of the pancreas cells that code for insulin
a silent mutation in the genes of the pancreas cells that code for insulin

a chromosomal deletion that affects the ability of blood to carry oxygen

Answer 1

The mutation that would be passed on to living offspring if it occurred in a parent is:

an insertion mutation in a gamete that deactivates a gene for hair color.

Mutations that occur in gametes (sperm and egg cells) can be inherited by the offspring, while mutations in somatic cells (such as those causing skin cancer) are not passed on. A silent mutation, while it may occur, does not change the resulting protein and therefore would not significantly affect the offspring, and a chromosomal deletion affecting blood oxygen capacity would also need to occur in a gamete to be inherited.