Which of the following would lead to increased genetic variation in offspring?(1 point) Responses reproduction during asexual reproduction that results in genetically identical offspring. reproduction during asexual reproduction that results in genetically identical offspring. independent assortment of chromosomes during mitosis that creates a new combination of alleles. independent assortment of chromosomes during mitosis that creates a new combination of alleles. a crossing over event during mitosis that creates a new combination of alleles in a somatic cell a crossing over event during mitosis that creates a new combination of alleles in a somatic cell a DNA replication error in a gamete of an individual during meiosis a DNA replication error in a gamete of an individual during meiosis

Answer 1

To determine which option leads to increased genetic variation in offspring, let's evaluate each response:

1. Reproduction during asexual reproduction that results in genetically identical offspring: This does not increase genetic variation, as asexual reproduction typically produces clones of the parent.

2. Independent assortment of chromosomes during mitosis that creates a new combination of alleles: Independent assortment occurs during meiosis, not mitosis, and it does increase genetic variation during sexual reproduction, but this statement is incorrectly attributed to mitosis.

3. A crossing over event during mitosis that creates a new combination of alleles in a somatic cell: Crossing over typically occurs during meiosis, not mitosis. While it does increase genetic variation, this option is incorrectly associated with mitosis.

4. A DNA replication error in a gamete of an individual during meiosis: This can lead to mutations and genetic variation. Errors in DNA replication can create new alleles, contributing to genetic diversity.

Given this analysis, the option that specifically leads to increased genetic variation is:

A DNA replication error in a gamete of an individual during meiosis.