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Multiple Choice
The image shows a single litter of kittens. How are the kittens similar to one another?
A
They have different numbers of chromosomes.
B
They share similar genetic material inherited from their parents.
C
They are all the same age as their mother.
D
They all have identical fur patterns and colors.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of genetic inheritance. Genetic material is passed from parents to offspring through chromosomes, which contain DNA. This DNA carries the instructions for traits such as fur patterns, colors, and other characteristics.
Step 2: Recognize that kittens in a litter inherit genetic material from both their mother and father. This means they share similar genetic material, but they are not identical due to the combination of genes from both parents.
Step 3: Clarify that the number of chromosomes in an organism is fixed for a species. For example, cats have 38 chromosomes (19 pairs), and this number does not vary among individuals of the same species.
Step 4: Address the misconception about fur patterns and colors. While kittens may share some similarities in fur patterns and colors due to genetic inheritance, they are not identical because of genetic variation and recombination during reproduction.
Step 5: Explain that the age of the kittens is not related to their mother’s age. All kittens in a litter are born at the same time, making them the same age as one another, but not the same age as their mother.