Environment can affect phenotype by altering the sequence of bases in DNA - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 11 - 2015 - Paper 1
Question 11
Environment can affect phenotype by altering the sequence of bases in DNA.
Which of the following is an example of this?
(A) High protein diets making children tal... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Environment can affect phenotype by altering the sequence of bases in DNA - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 11 - 2015 - Paper 1
Step 1
High protein diets making children taller than their parents.
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Answer
This option suggests a phenotypic trait influenced by nutrition rather than a direct alteration in the DNA sequence, hence it does not fit the definition.
Step 2
Stress causing the expression of one set of genes instead of another.
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Answer
While stress can affect gene expression, this option does not involve a change in the sequence of DNA bases itself, thus it's not an example.
Step 3
Language and music lessons improving intelligence in young children.
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This option describes an environmental influence on learning but does not refer to a genetic change in DNA sequence, making it unsuitable.
Step 4
Nuclear fallout from atomic bombs increasing birth defects in populations.
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This option best illustrates the concept, as nuclear fallout can cause mutations in the DNA sequence leading to phenotypic changes, such as birth defects.
