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Multiple Choice
What is the difference between homozygous and heterozygous genotypes?
A
Homozygous genotypes are always recessive, while heterozygous genotypes are always dominant.
B
Homozygous genotypes have identical alleles for a trait, while heterozygous genotypes have different alleles.
C
Homozygous genotypes have different alleles for a trait, while heterozygous genotypes have identical alleles.
D
Homozygous genotypes result in a blend of traits, while heterozygous genotypes result in a dominant trait expression.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of alleles: Alleles are different forms of a gene that are found at the same place on a chromosome. They can be dominant or recessive.
Define homozygous genotype: A homozygous genotype has two identical alleles for a specific trait. This can be either two dominant alleles (e.g., AA) or two recessive alleles (e.g., aa).
Define heterozygous genotype: A heterozygous genotype has two different alleles for a specific trait, one dominant and one recessive (e.g., Aa).
Clarify the expression of traits: In a homozygous genotype, the trait expressed is determined by the identical alleles. In a heterozygous genotype, the dominant allele typically masks the expression of the recessive allele, resulting in the dominant trait being expressed.
Correct the misconceptions: Homozygous genotypes are not always recessive, and heterozygous genotypes are not always dominant. The key difference is the identity of the alleles, not the dominance or recessiveness of the trait.