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Multiple Choice
How might the two members of a pair of homologous chromosomes differ from each other? a) In the sequence of the DNA making up each of the chromosomes. b) In the relative position of the genes present on each of the chromosomes. c) They cannot differ if they are homologous. d) In the kinds of genes present on each of the chromosomes.
A
In the sequence of the DNA making up each of the chromosomes.
B
In the relative position of the genes present on each of the chromosomes.
C
They cannot differ if they are homologous.
D
In the kinds of genes present on each of the chromosomes.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the definition of homologous chromosomes: Homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes in a diploid organism that have the same structure and gene sequence, but they may have different alleles.
Consider the sequence of DNA: While homologous chromosomes have the same genes at the same loci, the sequence of DNA can differ due to variations in alleles. This means that the specific nucleotide sequence can vary between the two chromosomes.
Examine the position of genes: Homologous chromosomes have genes located at the same positions (loci) on each chromosome. Therefore, they do not differ in the relative position of genes.
Evaluate the kinds of genes: Homologous chromosomes contain the same types of genes, so they do not differ in the kinds of genes present.
Conclude that homologous chromosomes can differ in the sequence of DNA due to different alleles, but not in the kinds or positions of genes, as they are structurally similar.