AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Do Parents Pass Gene Mutations to Children? If a parent carries a gene mutation in their egg or sperm, it can pass to their child. These hereditary (or inherited) mutations are in almost every cell of the person’s body throughout their life.

Detailed explanation-2: -These occur in all cells in the developing body-except the sperm and egg. Somatic mutations can’t pass from parents to their children (hereditary) because traits are passed only from the sperm and 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: -Mutations can occur in either cell type. If a gene is altered in a germ cell, the mutation is termed a germinal mutation. Because germ cells give rise to gametes, some gamete s will carry the mutation and it will be passed on to the next generation when the individual successfully mates.