what is the difference between polygenic inheritance and pleiotropy

ATI TEAS 7

ati teas 7 science

1. What is the difference between polygenic inheritance and pleiotropy?

A. Polygenic inheritance involves multiple genes influencing one trait, while pleiotropy involves one gene affecting multiple traits.
B. Polygenic inheritance is found in simple Mendelian traits, while pleiotropy is found in complex traits.
C. Polygenic inheritance is always quantitative, while pleiotropy can be qualitative or quantitative.
D. Both involve multiple genes and multiple traits, but the specific mechanisms differ

Correct answer: A

Rationale: - Polygenic inheritance refers to the situation where a trait is influenced by multiple genes, each contributing a small effect to the phenotype. These traits often show continuous variation and are not easily categorized into discrete categories. - Pleiotropy, on the other hand, occurs when a single gene influences multiple, seemingly unrelated traits. This means that a mutation in one gene can lead to multiple phenotypic effects across different traits or characteristics. - Therefore, the key difference between polygenic inheritance and pleiotropy lies in the number of genes involved in influencing a trait (multiple genes in polygenic inheritance vs. one gene in pleiotropy) and the direction of influence (one trait affected by multiple genes in polygenic inheritance vs. multiple traits affected by one gene in pleiotropy).

2. What type of reaction is represented by the following equation: 2C₆H₁₄ + 19O₂ → 12CO + 14H₂O?

A. Substitution reaction
B. Acid-base reaction
C. Enzyme reaction
D. Combustion reaction

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The given chemical equation represents a combustion reaction. Combustion reactions involve the burning of a hydrocarbon (C₆H₁₄) in the presence of oxygen (O₂) to produce carbon monoxide (CO) and water (H₂O). Combustion reactions typically release heat and light energy. In this case, the reactants are a hydrocarbon and oxygen, resulting in the formation of carbon monoxide and water. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the reaction does not involve substitution, acid-base reactions, or enzyme catalysis. Combustion reactions are characterized by the rapid combination of a substance with oxygen, leading to the production of heat and light energy.

3. The dark, round structures observed within some bacterial cells are most likely:

A. Ribosomes
B. Flagella
C. Endospores
D. Capsules

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Endospores are the correct answer. Endospores are dark, round structures observed within some bacterial cells. They are highly resistant dormant structures formed by certain bacteria in response to harsh environmental conditions. Ribosomes are not dark, round structures within bacterial cells; they are responsible for protein synthesis. Flagella are long, whip-like appendages used for movement and are not dark, round structures within bacterial cells. Capsules are outer layers of polysaccharides that some bacteria produce for protection and adherence, not dark, round structures within bacterial cells.

4. How are genetic markers utilized in paternity testing?

A. They identify unique sequences in the father's DNA present in the child.
B. They analyze the presence or absence of specific alleles for certain genes.
C. They compare the child's blood type to the parents' blood types.
D. They measure the child's physical resemblance to the father.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Genetic markers are specific DNA sequences that can vary among individuals. In paternity testing, genetic markers are used to compare the DNA of the child with that of the alleged father. By analyzing the presence or absence of specific alleles (different forms of a gene) at these genetic markers, scientists can determine the likelihood of paternity. This method is more accurate and reliable than comparing blood types (choice C) or physical resemblance (choice D) as genetic markers provide a direct comparison of DNA sequences between individuals. Therefore, option B is the correct choice as it accurately describes the use of genetic markers in paternity testing.

5. What is the role of the diaphragm in respiration?

A. To regulate air pressure in the lungs
B. To contract and expand the lungs
C. To store oxygen
D. To break down carbon dioxide

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The diaphragm plays a crucial role in respiration by contracting and expanding the lungs. When the diaphragm contracts, it moves downward, creating more space in the chest cavity and allowing the lungs to expand. This expansion leads to a decrease in pressure inside the lungs, causing air to rush in. When the diaphragm relaxes, it moves back up, decreasing the space in the chest cavity and causing the lungs to deflate. This action increases the pressure in the lungs, leading to air being pushed out. Therefore, the diaphragm's main function is to facilitate the inhalation and exhalation of air by contracting and expanding the lungs. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the diaphragm's primary function is not to regulate air pressure in the lungs, store oxygen, or break down carbon dioxide. Instead, its main purpose is to aid in the mechanical process of breathing.