Question

a pregnant woman was recently arrested for using heroin. she is physically dependent on heroin, and there is a risk that her fetus will be born dependent on heroin as well. if it causes birth defects, heroin would be considered a _____ for the fetus. hereditary factor zygote teratogen genetic factor

Explanation:

• Hereditary factor: Refers to traits passed down through genes, not external substances like heroin.
• Zygote: Is the initial cell formed when an egg and sperm fuse, not a substance that causes birth defects.
• Teratogen: A substance that can cause birth defects. Heroin, if it causes birth defects, fits this definition.
• Genetic factor: Relates to an organism's genetic makeup, not an external agent like heroin.

Answer:

C. teratogen