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Our knowledge of biology is increased by scientists exploring and testing ideas using available technologies - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 30 - 2014 - Paper 1
Question 30
Our knowledge of biology is increased by scientists exploring and testing ideas using available technologies. The explanations of scientists are then verified or mod... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Our knowledge of biology is increased by scientists exploring and testing ideas using available technologies - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 30 - 2014 - Paper 1
Step 1
Mendel's Contributions to Inheritance
Answer
Gregor Mendel is known as the father of genetics for his work on pea plants using artificial pollination. He established that traits are inherited through discrete units (now known as genes). By crossing pure breeding plants, he produced the F1 generation and observed that traits did not blend but were passed on as distinct entities. His experiments demonstrated that every trait is governed by two factors, which segregate during gamete formation. Mendel's work laid the foundation for understanding inheritance patterns.
Step 2
Sutton's Chromosome Theory
Answer
Walter Sutton utilized microscopy and staining techniques to study chromosomes, which led to the formulation of the chromosome theory of inheritance. He observed that chromosomes were separated during meiosis, during which genes are lined up. Sutton proposed that these structures are responsible for the transmission of genetic information from one generation to the next, validating Mendel's concepts through a physical basis provided by chromosomes.
Step 3
Franklin and DNA Structure
Answer
Rosalind Franklin conducted x-ray diffraction studies that revealed the helical structure of DNA. Although initially overlooked, her work provided critical evidence that influenced Watson and Crick's model of DNA. Franklin's findings reinforced the idea of how genetic information is stored, replicated, and transmitted in living organisms, expanding upon Mendelian inheritance by showing the molecular basis of genetic traits.