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Multiple Choice
Variation in human skin color is an example of:
A
simple Mendelian inheritance
B
polygenic inheritance
C
codominance
D
sex-linked inheritance
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of polygenic inheritance: Polygenic inheritance occurs when multiple genes contribute to a single trait. In this case, human skin color is influenced by the interaction of several genes, each with additive effects, rather than being determined by a single gene as in simple Mendelian inheritance.
Eliminate simple Mendelian inheritance: Simple Mendelian inheritance involves traits controlled by a single gene with dominant and recessive alleles. Since skin color is influenced by multiple genes, this option is incorrect.
Eliminate codominance: Codominance occurs when two alleles are expressed equally in the phenotype, such as in AB blood type. Skin color does not exhibit this pattern, so this option is also incorrect.
Eliminate sex-linked inheritance: Sex-linked inheritance involves genes located on sex chromosomes (X or Y). Skin color is not determined by sex-linked genes, so this option is not applicable.
Conclude that the correct answer is polygenic inheritance: Human skin color is a classic example of polygenic inheritance, as it is determined by the combined effects of multiple genes, each contributing to the variation in pigmentation.