Question

A scientist carries out an experiment on a hamster. He exposes the hamster to x-rays at regular intervals. This results in a germ line mutation in the hamster. What is the possible outcome on the progeny of the hamster? A. The defect is not carried forward to the progeny of the hamster. B. The defect is carried forward to the progeny of the hamster. C. The defect is lost in the progeny of the hamster.

Answer 1

The correct answer is B. The defect is carried forward to the progeny of the hamster.

Germline mutations occur in germ cells which later become sex cells and occur as a result of change in the DNA of the germ cell. The germline mutations unlike the somatic mutations are hereditary in nature as they occur in the gametes which participate in the process of fertilization. Each gamete donates half of the genetic material to the zygote and affects only one of the two homologous chromosome i.e. the one which is passed on from a mutated parent's germ cell. This creates a 50% chance that  the mutated chromosome is passed to the progeny.The germline mutation is carried by the entire organism but only half of the gametes have the mutation. The germline mutation occurs during the meiosis at the embryo stage so it cannot be lost in the progeny.

Answer 2

I think the correct answer from the choices listed above is option B. The possible  outcome on the progeny of the hamster would be that the defect is carried forward to the progeny of the hamster. Hope this answers the question. have a nice day.