The haploid human genome contains approximately 3.2 billion base pairs.How many mutations,on average,does each individual inherit from each of the gametes that united to form the zygotes from which he or she grew?

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The average mutation rate in humans is about 1 in every 100 million base pairs per generation. Therefore, each gamete is likely to have about 32 mutations (3.2 billion divided by 100 million). Since two gametes unite to form a zygote, the zygote would have about 64 mutations. However, not all of these mutations will be passed on to the next generation. Some will be eliminated by natural selection, while others may not occur in the germ cells that produce the gametes. Therefore, on average, each individual inherits about 36 mutations (half of the mutations present in the zygote).

The Haploid Human Genome Contains Approximately 3