Question 1

Which statement about heritability estimates is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

Heritability estimates can be influenced by environmental factors, and can vary based on the specific group being studied. For example, heritability estimates for a trait may be higher in one population than in another, depending on the different environmental factors at play. Choice A is incorrect, as heritability estimates cannot suggest the existence of genes for specific complex behaviors like divorce. Choice C is partially correct, as heritability estimates can provide information about genetic and environmental contributions to a trait, but not necessarily for an individual specifically. Choice D is incorrect, as heritability estimates do not indicate the level of changeability of a trait.

Question 2

Identical twins Ilyse and Lauren both have a gene for trait H. The gene for trait H is expressed only when a child eats rice before the age of 2. Ilyse and Lauren are separated at birth, and Ilyse lives in Japan, where babies begin eating rice at an early age. Lauren lives in the United States, and she is not given rice before the age of 2. Ilyse develops trait H, whereas Lauren does not develop the trait. This is an example of

Accepted Answer

This is an example of genotype-environment interaction because both Ilyse and Lauren have the gene for trait H, but only Ilyse expresses the trait because of the environmental factor of eating rice before the age of 2.

Question 3

Which statement is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

D

Question 4

Gene expression can be suppressed by the process of

Accepted Answer

Methylation is the process by which a methyl group is added to a DNA molecule, usually at a cytosine residue. This modification can inhibit the expression of the affected gene. Mutation refers to a change in the DNA sequence that may or may not affect gene expression, depending on the specific mutation. Recession and myelination are not related to gene expression suppression.

Question 5

Behavior genetics rests in part on the premise that to the extent genetic factors are important, individuals who _____ should be more similar than are individuals who _____.

Accepted Answer

Behavior genetics studies the role of genetics in behavior. According to the premise of behavior genetics, individuals who are closely related (and share more genetic material) should be more similar in their behavior compared to individuals who are unrelated (and share less genetic material). Therefore, option A, which states that individuals who are closely related should be more similar than those who are unrelated, is the best choice.

Question 6

Which statement does NOT describe a problem associated with the use of formula for infant feeding in underdeveloped countries?

Accepted Answer

Option D is actually a statement of fact and not a problem associated with the use of formula for infant feeding in underdeveloped countries. The other options, A, B, and C, all describe significant problems that can arise from the use of formula in these settings.

Question 7

_____ is a normal part of development, which is evident via _____.

Accepted Answer

Cell death is a normal part of development as it allows for the wiring of the brain to become more efficient. This process is accompanied by synaptic pruning, which is the elimination of unused or unnecessary neural connections.

Question 8

Which design would be ideal for studying behavior genetics?

Accepted Answer

An adoptive twin study is ideal for studying behavior genetics because it combines the strengths of both adoption and twin studies, allowing researchers to disentangle the effects of genetics and environment on behavior.

Question 9

A twin study is conducted to examine the role of genetics and environment on the fondness of individuals for chocolate. Which result would lead to the conclusion that genetic factors are important in the development of this trait?

Accepted Answer

If identical twins are more similar on the trait than are fraternal twins, it suggests that there is a genetic component to the fondness for chocolate. This is because identical twins share 100% of their genes, while fraternal twins only share 50% on average. Therefore, if identical twins are more similar, it points towards genetics playing a role in the development of the trait.

Question 10

Which twins are LEAST similar in intelligence?

Accepted Answer

Fraternal twins share the same amount of genetic material as any other siblings, so their intelligence may vary similar to that of non-twin siblings. As they grow up and develop distinct personalities and interests, their intelligence levels may diverge even further. Therefore, fraternal twins in adulthood are likely to be the least similar in intelligence.

Question 11

Which statement about sex determination is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

The father's sperm determines the sex of the offspring because it can carry either an X or a Y chromosome, while the mother's egg always carries an X chromosome.

Question 12

Which is NOT an example of how associative learning can impact food choices of children?

Accepted Answer

Option B is not an example of associative learning, but rather a natural response to unfamiliar or unknown food items. Associative learning involves forming associations between stimuli and responses, such as selecting fast-food choices because of prizes or toys offered or eating food items because other children like them. The use of popular cartoon characters in food marketing is also an example of associative learning.

Question 13

Which factor is NOT associated with obesity?

Accepted Answer

Adequate sleep is actually associated with decreased obesity risk. Lack of sleep has been linked to disrupted hormones that regulate appetite and increased cravings for unhealthy high-calorie foods. Social isolation, ethnicity, and diabetes have all been associated with increased obesity risk.

Question 14

A method of producing DNA is referred to as

Accepted Answer

Gene synthesis is the process of creating a DNA sequence by piecing together nucleotides in a specific order. This can be done artificially through automated machines or by using natural enzymes to stitch nucleotides together. Gene sequencing refers to determining the order of nucleotides in a DNA molecule. Genome refers to the entire set of genetic instructions found in an organism's DNA. Genotype refers to the specific genetic makeup of an individual or group. While all of these terms may be related to DNA, gene synthesis is the method specifically used to produce new DNA sequences.

Question 15

An individual suffers brain damage to one small area of the brain. As a result, he struggles to process visual information. Which area has he MOST likely injured?

Accepted Answer

The occipital lobe is responsible for visual processing. Damage to this area can cause difficulty in processing visual information.

Question 16

Behavior genetics rests in part on the premise that to the extent environmental factors are important, individuals who _____ should be more similar than are individuals who _____.

Accepted Answer

DBehavior genetics studies the influence of genetics and environment on behaviors. Individuals who have lived together (C) are expected to be more similar due to shared environmental influences, compared to those who have not lived together (D), highlighting the role of environment in shaping behavior.

Question 17

Which are used in attempts to link multiple DNA segments with particular traits?

Accepted Answer

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) are used to identify genetic variants associated with particular traits or diseases. GWAS analyze millions of DNA variations across the genome and compare them between groups with and without the trait of interest. This helps to identify specific genetic variants that are associated with the trait.

Question 18

Which statement about traits that involve polygenic inheritance is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

Polygenic inheritance involves the interaction of multiple genes in determining a trait, and these traits are often influenced by environmental factors. Many common human disorders, such as diabetes and hypertension, are believed to result from interactions among multiple inherited genes, often in conjunction with environmental factors. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not accurately describe how traits involving polygenic inheritance are passed down and expressed.

Question 19

Which item is NOT a source of variability in physical development among individuals?

Accepted Answer

Body image is related to psychological factors rather than physical development, and therefore is not a source of variability in physical development among individuals. A, B, and C are all known sources of variability in physical development, as genes, nutrition, and chronic stress can all impact physical growth and development.

Question 20

Which sequence lists the CORRECT order of events in the development of a male?

Accepted Answer

The Y chromosome contains the SRY gene that encodes for a protein that triggers the formation of testes during prenatal development. The testes then produce testosterone, which is responsible for the development of male external and internal reproductive organs. Therefore, the correct order of events is Y chromosome encodes protein > prenatal formation of testes > production of testosterone.

Quiz 3: Biology and Behavior