Which statement best explains how genetic mutations produce genetic variation?(1 point)

Responses

A strand of DNA is translated into RNA and a codon is skipped. The protein resulting from the RNA strand is expressed as a new trait.
A strand of DNA is translated into RNA and a codon is skipped. The protein resulting from the RNA strand is expressed as a new trait. - no response given

A male and a female with different alleles reproduce to make offspring that have a new combination of genotypes and phenotypes.
A male and a female with different alleles reproduce to make offspring that have a new combination of genotypes and phenotypes. - no response given

A cell divides twice, forming four gametes, each with unique characteristics due to crossing over and independent assortment.
A cell divides twice, forming four gametes, each with unique characteristics due to crossing over and independent assortment. - incorrect

A population of individuals is hunted to the brink of extinction. The remaining individuals reproduce, and their limited genetics are passed on to the subsequent generations.

1 answer

The statement that best explains how genetic mutations produce genetic variation is:

"A male and a female with different alleles reproduce to make offspring that have a new combination of genotypes and phenotypes."

This statement highlights the role of sexual reproduction in creating genetic variation through the combination of different alleles from each parent. While mutations themselves also contribute to genetic variation, the description provided focuses more broadly on how variation can arise through reproductive processes.