To describe how genetic continuity is preserved through meiosis, let's analyze the given options in light of the process of meiosis and its significance in sexual reproduction.
Correct Answer: D. Cell 5 shows half the number of chromatids present in Cell 1. When meiosis is a part of reproduction, half of the offspring's DNA will come from each parent.
Explanation:
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Meiosis Overview: Meiosis is a specialized form of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in four genetically diverse gametes (sperm or eggs). This process is crucial for sexual reproduction as it ensures that offspring inherit half of their genetic material from each parent.
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Genetic Continuity: Genetic continuity refers to the transfer of genetic material through generations while maintaining the species' chromosome number. In meiosis, diploid (2n) parent cells undergo two rounds of division (meiosis I and II) to produce haploid (n) gametes. This halving of the chromosome number ensures that when two gametes fuse during fertilization, the diploid state is restored in the offspring.
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Interpretation of D: The description in option D indicates that Cell 5 has half the number of chromatids compared to Cell 1, which implies that meiosis has successfully halved the genetic material. Furthermore, the offspring will inherit half of their DNA from each parent (one gamete from each), reinforcing the concept of genetic continuity.
Why Other Options are Incorrect:
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A: This option incorrectly states that offspring will not have similar DNA due to different colored chromosomes. While genetic diversity is a hallmark of meiosis, it does not imply that none of the offspring will have similar DNA; rather, they will have a combination of traits from each parent.
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B: This option suggests that offspring inherit "twice as much DNA" from the parent, which is misleading. In fact, offspring inherit half the amount of DNA from each parent.
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C: This option describes genetically different chromatids, which is true due to crossing over, but it incorrectly asserts that the offspring's DNA will be entirely different from the parent's DNA. Offspring do share a significant proportion of their genetic material with their parents.
In conclusion, choice D correctly highlights the genetic contribution from each parent and accurately portrays how meiosis preserves genetic continuity while contributing to genetic diversity through sexual reproduction.
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