Question

question 8 of 25
how does fertilization increase genetic variation among family members?
a. it combines gametes from different individuals to produce unique sets of traits.
b. it allows crossing over to produce new combinations of alleles on a chromosome.
c. it allows independent assortment to produce new combinations of chromosomes.
d. it produces gametes with unique combinations of alleles that can be combined during sexual reproduction.

Explanation:

Fertilization involves the union of gametes (sperm and egg) from two different individuals. Each gamete has a unique combination of genetic material due to processes like meiosis (which includes crossing - over and independent assortment). When these gametes fuse during fertilization, the resulting zygote has a new and unique set of traits that is a combination of the genetic material from both parents. This combination of gametes from different individuals is what directly increases genetic variation among family members.

• Option B: Crossing - over occurs during meiosis (not during fertilization) and is part of the process that creates genetic variation in gametes, not directly in fertilization.
• Option C: Independent assortment also occurs during meiosis (not during fertilization) and is a mechanism for generating genetic variation in gametes, not in the act of fertilization itself.
• Option D: The production of gametes with unique combinations of alleles occurs during meiosis. Fertilization is the process of combining these pre - existing unique gametes (from different individuals), not the production of the gametes.

Answer:

A. It combines gametes from different individuals to produce unique sets of traits.