14. Answer any two of (a), (b), (c) - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 14 - 2016
Question 14
14. Answer any two of (a), (b), (c).
(a) (i) Explain the term species.
(ii) What term is used to describe the differences which exist between individuals of a spec... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:14. Answer any two of (a), (b), (c) - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 14 - 2016
Step 1
Explain the term species.
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
A species is defined as a group of organisms that are capable of interbreeding and producing fertile offspring. This definition emphasizes reproductive isolation, meaning that members of different species do not typically interbreed under natural conditions.
Step 2
What term is used to describe the differences which exist between individuals of a species?
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The term used to describe the differences that exist between individuals of a species is 'intraspecific variation.' This variation refers to the genetic differences that occur within a single species, affecting their traits and behaviors.
Step 3
1. Explain the term evolution.
96%
101 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Evolution refers to the genetic changes that occur within populations over time. These changes happen as a result of variations among individuals, which can lead to the development of new species in response to changes in their environment.
Step 4
2. Outline the role of natural selection in evolution.
98%
120 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Natural selection plays a crucial role in evolution by favoring individuals that are better adapted to their environment. These individuals are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing their advantageous traits to the next generation. Over time, these adaptations become more common in the population.
Step 5
Explain the term mutation.
97%
117 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
A mutation is defined as a change in the DNA sequence of a gene or chromosome. Mutations can lead to variations in traits, some of which may be beneficial, harmful, or neutral in terms of survival and reproduction.
Step 6
1. Gene mutation disorder example.
97%
121 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
One example of a disorder caused by gene mutation is sickle cell anemia. This condition arises from a specific mutation in the hemoglobin gene, leading to abnormal red blood cell shapes.
Step 7
2. Chromosome mutation disorder example.
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
An example of a disorder caused by chromosome mutation is Down syndrome, which is typically caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21.
Step 8
Give one cause of the differences referred to in (ii) above, other than mutation.
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
One cause of the intraspecific differences, other than mutation, is sexual reproduction. During this process, genetic material is mixed, leading to variation among offspring through mechanisms such as meiosis and independent assortment.
Join the Leaving Cert students using SimpleStudy...
