Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
In the context of organic chemistry, how can polyploidy lead to speciation in plants?
A
Polyploidy causes plants to produce fewer seeds, limiting reproduction.
B
Polyploidy results in smaller plant size, reducing competition for resources.
C
Polyploidy increases genetic diversity, allowing plants to adapt to new environments.
D
Polyploidy reduces genetic variation, making plants more susceptible to diseases.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of polyploidy: Polyploidy is a condition in which a plant has more than two complete sets of chromosomes. This can occur due to errors in cell division or hybridization between species.
Recognize the role of genetic diversity: Polyploidy increases genetic diversity because it introduces additional sets of genes. This genetic variation can provide a broader range of traits for natural selection to act upon.
Consider the impact on adaptation: With increased genetic diversity, polyploid plants may have a better chance of adapting to new or changing environments. This adaptability can lead to the development of new species over time.
Evaluate the potential for reproductive isolation: Polyploidy can result in reproductive isolation from the parent species, as polyploid individuals may not be able to successfully interbreed with diploid individuals. This isolation is a key factor in speciation.
Connect polyploidy to speciation: By increasing genetic diversity and potentially leading to reproductive isolation, polyploidy can drive the process of speciation, allowing plants to evolve into distinct species better suited to their environments.