AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -If a mutation occurs in a germ-line cell (one that will give rise to gametes, i.e., egg or sperm cells), then this mutation can be passed to an organism’s offspring. This means that every cell in the developing embryo will carry the mutation.

Detailed explanation-2: -The sperm and egg pass from parents to their children, so the mutation is inherited. You can’t inherit somatic mutations because they occur randomly in cells that aren’t the sperm or egg.

Detailed explanation-3: -If an acquired mutation occurs in an egg or sperm cell, it can be passed down to the individual’s offspring. Once an acquired mutation is passed down, it is a hereditary mutation. Acquired mutations are not passed down if they occur in the somatic cells, meaning body cells other than sperm cells and egg cells.

Detailed explanation-4: -Errors in DNA copying during cell division and development can cause new mutations-called de novo mutations-at any time from the moment of conception. Mutations that occur in the germ line-the cells that develop into sperm or eggs-can be passed on to the next generation and, perhaps, cause disease in children.