Psychology - Life Span - Chapter 3 - Book Work (Pt 3 - T/F)

Explanation
This statement is true because most human characteristics are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Genetic factors, such as inherited traits and genes, play a role in determining certain characteristics. However, environmental factors, such as upbringing, lifestyle, and experiences, also contribute to the development and expression of these characteristics. The interaction between genetic and environmental factors is complex and can vary for different traits and individuals.

Explanation
The given statement suggests that research has found a link between genetic inheritance and susceptibility to alcoholism. This means that individuals may have a predisposition to developing alcoholism based on their genetic makeup. The word "partly" indicates that while genetics play a role, there may be other factors involved as well. Therefore, the correct answer is True, as research supports the idea that genetic inheritance contributes to alcoholism susceptibility.

Explanation
The statement is true because gametes are indeed the reproductive cells in humans. Ova, also known as eggs, are the female gametes, while sperm are the male gametes. These cells are specialized for sexual reproduction and are responsible for transmitting genetic information from one generation to the next.

Explanation
This statement is false because many human traits are polygenic, meaning they are influenced by multiple genes. Polygenic traits include height, intelligence, and skin color, among others. These traits are not determined by a single gene but are the result of the interaction of multiple genes. Therefore, the statement that only a very few human traits are polygenic is incorrect.

Explanation
The zygote is formed when a sperm fertilizes an egg, and it contains all the genetic material necessary for the development of an individual. This genetic material includes the genes and chromosomes that will determine an individual's traits and characteristics throughout their life. As the zygote divides and develops into an embryo, this genetic information is passed on to every cell in the body. Therefore, it is correct to say that the zygote contains all the biologically inherited information a person will have during their life.

Explanation
If a couple has experienced several earlier pregnancies that ended in spontaneous abortion, it is advisable for them to seek genetic counseling. This is because recurrent spontaneous abortions may indicate underlying genetic issues or abnormalities that could be inherited by future pregnancies. Genetic counseling can help identify these potential genetic factors, provide information about the risks involved, and offer guidance on possible preventive measures or treatment options to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.

Explanation
This statement is false because for a child to have a recessive genetic condition, both parents must carry the gene. If only the mother carries the gene, but the father does not, then the child will not have the condition. The condition can only be passed on to the child if both parents are carriers of the gene.

Explanation
This statement is true because phenotype refers to the observable physical characteristics of an organism, such as eye color. Genotype, on the other hand, refers to the genetic makeup or combination of alleles that an organism carries for a particular trait. Since there can be different combinations of alleles that can result in the same phenotype, it is possible for two individuals with the same phenotype, such as having brown eyes, to have different genotypes.

Explanation
During the process of cell division to create reproductive cells, known as gametes, each gamete receives only 23 chromosomes. This is because gametes are produced through a specialized form of cell division called meiosis, which involves two rounds of division. In the first round, the original cell's chromosomes are duplicated, resulting in two sets of chromosomes. Then, in the second round, these sets are separated, resulting in four gametes, each containing only one set of chromosomes (23 in humans). Therefore, the statement that each sperm or ovum receives only 23 chromosomes, half as many as the original cell, is true.

Explanation
The statement "Most genes have only one function" is false. Genes are segments of DNA that contain instructions for the production of proteins, which are responsible for various functions in the body. Many genes have multiple functions and can be involved in different biological processes. This concept is known as gene pleiotropy. Additionally, some genes can also have alternative splicing, where different combinations of exons are used to produce different protein isoforms, further increasing the functional diversity of genes. Therefore, it is incorrect to claim that most genes have only one function.