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Scientists have used chemicals to produce polyploids to try to improve the characteristics of kiwi fruit plants - Scottish Highers Biology - Question 13 - 2018
Question 13
Scientists have used chemicals to produce polyploids to try to improve the characteristics of kiwi fruit plants. The table shows some characteristics of fruit from ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Scientists have used chemicals to produce polyploids to try to improve the characteristics of kiwi fruit plants - Scottish Highers Biology - Question 13 - 2018
Step 1
Step 2
(a) (ii) Describe the relationship between ploidy and average fruit diameter.
Answer
The relationship between ploidy and average fruit diameter indicates that as the ploidy level increases from 2n to 4n, the average fruit diameter remains constant at 60.0 mm. Hence, the average fruit diameter does not change with the increase in ploidy from 4n to 6n.
Step 3
(b) Calculate the percentage increase in average fruit mass when the chromosome number is doubled.
Answer
To calculate the percentage increase in average fruit mass when the chromosome number is doubled:
- Average fruit mass at 2n = 96.5 g
- Average fruit mass at 4n = 115.8 g
Percentage increase =
Step 4
(c) Describe the event that has occurred in the cells of the kiwi fruit plant that resulted in polyploidy.
Answer
The event that has occurred in the cells of the kiwi fruit plant resulting in polyploidy is complete non-disjunction, where chromosomes fail to separate properly during cell division.
Step 5
(d) Explain the importance of this in evolution.
Answer
Whole genome duplications are significant because they can lead to mutations that create extra genetic material. This genetic variability allows for natural selection to act upon new traits, potentially leading to evolutionary advancements. Furthermore, polyploids may develop new adaptations and improve species resilience.