Question

complete the table to indicate whether each statement is true or false. during fertilization, diploid gametes combine to form a haploid zygote. genetic variation allows populations to adapt to their environment. two homologous chromosomes in a somatic cell contain the same genes, but may contain different alleles. during sexual reproduction, offspring get half their dna from each parent. alleles interact to produce observable traits in an organism

Explanation:

• First statement: Gametes are haploid. During fertilization, two haploid gametes (sperm and egg) combine to form a diploid zygote. So the statement "During fertilization, diploid gametes combine to form a haploid zygote" is false.
• Second statement: Genetic variation provides the raw material for natural selection. Populations with more genetic variation are more likely to have individuals with traits that are well - suited to a changing environment. So the statement "Genetic variation allows populations to adapt to their environment" is true.
• Third statement: Homologous chromosomes have the same genes at the same loci. However, they can have different alleles (versions of the same gene). For example, one homologous chromosome may have the allele for blue eyes and the other for brown eyes at the eye - color gene locus. So the statement "Two homologous chromosomes in a somatic cell contain the same genes, but may contain different alleles" is true.
• Fourth statement: In sexual reproduction, each parent contributes a haploid gamete. The offspring's diploid genome is made up of half of the DNA from the mother (in the egg) and half from the father (in the sperm). So the statement "During sexual reproduction, offspring get half their DNA from each parent" is true.
• Fifth statement: Alleles are different forms of a gene. The combination of alleles (genotype) determines the observable traits (phenotype) of an organism. For example, in pea plants, the alleles for flower color (purple or white) interact to produce the observable flower - color trait. So the statement "Alleles interact to produce observable traits in an organism" is true.

Answer:

Statement	True	False
Genetic variation allows populations to adapt to their environment	✔
Two homologous chromosomes in a somatic cell contain the same genes, but may contain different alleles	✔
During sexual reproduction, offspring get half their DNA from each parent	✔
Alleles interact to produce observable traits in an organism	✔