Multiple Choice
Of the following chromosomal abnormalities, which type is most likely to be viable in humans?
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6. Chromosomal Variation
Chromosomal Mutations: Aneuploidy
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Nondisjunction might result in gametes with the chromosome numbers ________.
A
2n
B
n
C
n + 2 or n - 2
D
n + 1 or n - 1
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that nondisjunction is an error in meiosis where chromosomes fail to separate properly during anaphase.
Recall that normal gametes have a haploid number of chromosomes, represented as $n$, meaning they contain one set of chromosomes.
Recognize that if nondisjunction occurs, one gamete may receive an extra chromosome, resulting in $n + 1$, while the other gamete may lack one chromosome, resulting in $n - 1$.
Note that $2n$ represents the diploid number (the full set of chromosomes in somatic cells), which is not typical for gametes, and $n + 2$ or $n - 2$ would imply errors involving two chromosomes, which is less common in simple nondisjunction events.
Conclude that the correct chromosome numbers in gametes affected by nondisjunction are $n + 1$ or $n - 1$.
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