AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -During sexual reproduction the genetic material of two individuals is combined to produce genetically diverse offspring that differ from their parents. The genetic diversity of sexually produced offspring is thought to give species a better chance of surviving in an unpredictable or changing environment.

Detailed explanation-2: -Sexual reproduction provides genetic diversity because the sperm and egg that are produced contain different combinations of genes than the parent organisms. Asexual reproduction, on the other hand, does not need sperm and eggs since one organism splits into two organisms that have the same combination of genes.

Detailed explanation-3: -Genetically, the key components of sexual reproduction are recombination and, in diploid organisms, segregation. Both are absent under pure asexual reproduction.

Detailed explanation-4: -Genetic recombination (also known as genetic reshuffling) is the exchange of genetic material between different organisms which leads to production of offspring with combinations of traits that differ from those found in either parent.

Detailed explanation-5: -There are two main types of genetic material: DNA and RNA. In eukaryotic cells, which have a nucleus and membrane bound organelles, the DNA is stored in the nucleus wrapped round proteins called histones. In prokaryotic cells, the DNA exists in the cytoplasm.