Question

an individual develops a mutation that causes a change in skin color on their arm. the individual later has offspring with another individual. which sentence describes the mutation? a. if it occurred in only one parents gamete, it cannot be passed on to the offspring. b. if it occurred in a gamete, it cannot be passed on to the offspring. c. if it occurred in a somatic cell, it cannot be passed on to the offspring. d. if it occurred in all of the individuals gametes, it cannot be passed on to the offspring.

Explanation:

Mutations in somatic cells (body cells) are not passed on to offspring. Only mutations in gametes (reproductive cells) can be inherited. Option C correctly states that a somatic - cell mutation cannot be passed on. Option A is incorrect because a mutation in a gamete (even if only in one parent's gamete) can be passed on. Option B is wrong as gamete mutations can be inherited. Option D is incorrect since a mutation in all gametes would mean it could be passed on if the gamete is involved in fertilization.

Answer:

C. If it occurred in a somatic cell, it cannot be passed on to the offspring.