Sort the properties of inherited and somatic mutations.

exists in all the cells

of the body

skin cancer caused by

UV exposure

not passed on to offspring

inherited via egg and

sperm cells

found only in a specific

cell type

Somatic mutations properties:

• not passed on to offspring

• found only in a specific

cell type

• skin cancer caused by

UV exposure

Inherited mutation properties:

• exists in all the cells

of the body

• inherited via egg and

sperm cells.

Ans.

Inherited mutations include those mutations that occur in germ cells (gamete forming cells), and thus, can be transferred from one to next generation. As these mutations are present in eggs or sperms, in developing zygote, all cells show mutation.

Somatic mutations are those mutations that occur in somatic or body cells of an individual and cannot be transferred from one to next generation. These mutations are acquired by organisms after birth, hence, develop in specific cell groups.

Thus, out of given choices inherited mutations include:

-exists in all the cells of the body.

-inherited via egg and sperm cells.

While, the somatic mutations include:

-skin cancer caused by UV exposure.

-not passed on to offspring.

-found only in a specific cell type.