CramX Logo

Q
QuestionBiology

Which statement best describes a dominant allele? A. The version of the trait that is expressed only if the individual is homozygous for that trait. B. The version of the trait that is expressed over other alleles for the same trait. C. The version of the trait that is more beneficial to the individual's survival. D. The version of the trait that is expressed only if the individual is heterozygous for that trait.
12 months agoReport content

Answer

Full Solution Locked

Sign in to view the complete step-by-step solution and unlock all study resources.

Step 1:
Let's solve this step by step:

Step 2:
: Understanding Alleles and Dominance

In genetics, alleles are different versions of the same gene. Dominance refers to how these alleles interact when an organism has two different alleles for a trait.

Step 3:
: Analyzing the Characteristics of a Dominant Allele

A dominant allele is the version of a gene that will be expressed (shown in the organism's phenotype) even when only one copy of the allele is present. This means: - If an organism has one dominant allele and one recessive allele, the dominant allele's trait will be expressed - The dominant allele "masks" or "overrides" the recessive allele

Step 4:
: Eliminating Incorrect Options

- Option A is incorrect because a dominant allele does NOT require being homozygous - Option C is incorrect because dominance is a genetic mechanism, not related to survival benefit - Option D is incorrect because dominance occurs in both homozygous and heterozygous conditions

Step 5:
: Identifying the Correct Answer

Option B accurately describes a dominant allele: "The version of the trait that is expressed over other alleles for the same trait."

Final Answer

The version of the trait that is expressed over other alleles for the same trait.