Sperm and eggs in humans always                   . a. each have two copies of every gene; b. each have one copy of every gene; c. each contain either all recessive alleles or all dominant alleles; d. are genetically identical to all other sperm or eggs produced by that person; e. each contain all of the genetic information from their producer

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that sperm and eggs are gametes, which are involved in sexual reproduction and are produced through a process called meiosis.
2. Recall that meiosis involves two rounds of cell division that result in four daughter cells, each with half the number of chromosomes of the original cell.
3. Recognize that each gamete (sperm or egg) contains a single set of chromosomes, which is half the number of chromosomes found in other cells of the body, known as diploid cells.
4. Identify that because each gamete contains only one set of chromosomes, they each have one copy of every gene.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is that sperm and eggs each have one copy of every gene.

Key Concepts

Meiosis

Meiosis is a specialized type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in the formation of gametes (sperm and eggs). During this process, homologous chromosomes are separated, and genetic recombination occurs, leading to genetic diversity. Each gamete ends up with one copy of each chromosome, which is crucial for sexual reproduction.

Haploidy

Haploidy refers to the condition of having a single set of chromosomes, which is characteristic of gametes in sexually reproducing organisms. In humans, sperm and eggs are haploid cells, containing one copy of each gene, as opposed to diploid somatic cells, which have two copies. This ensures that when fertilization occurs, the resulting zygote has the correct diploid number of chromosomes.

Genetic Variation

Genetic variation is the diversity in gene frequencies within a population, which arises from processes such as mutation, recombination, and independent assortment during meiosis. This variation is essential for evolution and adaptation, as it provides the raw material for natural selection. In the context of gametes, it means that each sperm or egg produced by an individual is genetically unique.