Chapter 14, Problem 1SQ

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

The pedigree chart helps to depict the complete history of the pattern of inheritance of genetic disease from one generation to another generation. The inheritable genetic disease is either autosomal dominant or recessive or sex-linked based on which the probability of disease in a future generation can be predicted.

Answer to Problem 1SQ

Correct answer:

The pedigree chart is useful in studying the inheritance patterns for organisms that produce few offspring per generation. Hence, the correct answer is option b.

Explanation of Solution

Reason for correct answer:

Option b. is given as “few offspring per generation.”

The pedigree chart is an important analysis tool that helps to carefully evaluate the inheritance patterns and the manner in which the genetic diseases are passed on from one generation to next. This can also help in early diagnosis and treatment

Reason for incorrect answer:

Option a. is given as, “produce many offspring per generation.”

The organisms that have high offspring rate cannot be depicted using a pedigree chart due to the inability to accommodate such large numbers in the graphical representation. Hence, option a. is incorrect.

Option c. is given as, “have a very large chromosome number.”

The gene number does not affect the pedigree chart. Hence, option b. is incorrect.

Option d. is given as, “reproduce asexually.”

The organisms that reproduce asexually do not undergo recombination so cannot be represented through the pedigree chart. Hence, option c. is incorrect.

Option e. is given as, “have a fast life cycle.”

The organisms with a faster life cycle produce a large number of offspring in a given time which cannot be shown through the pedigree chart. Hence, option e. is incorrect

Hence, the options a., c., d and e. are incorrect.

Conclusion

The pedigree chart helps to demonstrate the genetic inheritance of disease in an organism that has few offspring per generation. Thus, the correct answer is b.