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

Question

Responses

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

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

Answer 1

To determine which mutation would be passed on to living offspring, we need to identify the type of mutation that occurs in the germ cells (gametes) rather than in somatic cells. Only mutations in germ cells can be inherited.

1. A chromosomal deletion that affects the ability of blood to carry oxygen - This mutation is not specified to occur in germ cells, so it cannot be assumed to be inherited.

2. An insertion mutation in a gamete that deactivates a gene for hair color - This mutation occurs in a gamete, therefore it can be passed on to offspring.

3. A substitution error that takes place in a somatic cell that causes skin cancer - This mutation occurs in a somatic cell and cannot be passed on to offspring.

4. A silent mutation in the genes of the pancreas cells that code for insulin - This mutation also occurs in somatic cells and cannot be passed on to offspring.

Based on this analysis, the mutation that would be passed on to living offspring if it happened in a parent is:

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