Asked by Elizabeth Enriquez on May 14, 2024
Verified
How many possible combinations of chromosomes are possible when you combine one person's sperm with another person's egg
A) 529, or 232
B) 2,116, or 462
C) 8 million, or 223
D) 70 trillion, or 246
Chromosomes
Chromosomes are long strands of DNA and proteins found in the nucleus of most living cells, carrying genetic information in the form of genes.
Sperm
Male reproductive cells or gametes in sexually reproducing organisms, containing genetic information to fertilize the female ovum.
Egg
An organic vessel containing the zygote in which an embryo develops until it can survive on its own, also a common food source rich in nutrients.
- Understand the basic principles of heredity and the biological basis of individual differences including the concept of polygenic inheritance.
Verified Answer
AB
AMARENDRA BISWALMay 18, 2024
Final Answer :
D
Explanation :
When combining one person's sperm with another person's egg, the total possible combinations of chromosomes is 70 trillion, or 246. This is because each person has 23 pairs of chromosomes that can be combined in multiple ways, resulting in a large number of possible combinations for each pair of chromosomes. The formula for calculating the number of possible combinations is 2^n, where n is the number of chromosome pairs. In this case, 2^23 pairs of chromosomes results in 70 trillion possible combinations.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the basic principles of heredity and the biological basis of individual differences including the concept of polygenic inheritance.