Question

3 multiple choice 1 point
asexual reproduction differs from sexual means of reproduction in that...
a. asexual reproduction requires greater investments of time and energy compared to sexual means.
b. asexual reproduction leads to rapid increases in populations of various organisms, sexual does not.
c. asexual reproduction produces genetic variability among offspring, sexual does not.
d. both a and b
e. both b and c

Explanation:

• Analyze Option A: Asexual reproduction typically requires less time and energy (e.g., binary fission in bacteria is quick), so A is incorrect.
• Analyze Option B: Asexual reproduction (e.g., in bacteria, plants via runners) allows rapid population growth as only one parent is needed. Sexual reproduction (needing two parents, mating, gestation) is slower, so B is correct.
• Analyze Option C: Sexual reproduction (via meiosis and fertilization) creates genetic variability; asexual (cloning) produces genetically identical offspring, so C is incorrect.
• Analyze D: Since A is incorrect, D is wrong.
• Analyze E: Since C is incorrect, E is wrong.

Answer:

B. Asexual reproduction leads to rapid increases in populations of various organisms, sexual does not.