Diseases carried by recessive genes are inherited when ________.
A) a child inherits two recessive genes, one from each parent
B) a child inherits two dominant genes, one from each parent
C) a child inherits a dominant gene from one parent and a recessive gene from the other parent
D) the child doesn't inherit any genes from one parent

Question

Diseases carried by recessive genes are inherited when ________.
A) a child inherits two recessive genes, one from each parent 
B) a child inherits two dominant genes, one from each parent
C) a child inherits a dominant gene from one parent and a recessive gene from the other parent 
D) the child doesn't inherit any genes from one parent

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Recessive genes are only expressed when a person inherits two copies, one from each parent. Therefore, the only way for someone to inherit a disease carried by a recessive gene is if they inherit two copies of that gene, one from each parent. Choice B is incorrect because if a person inherits two dominant genes, they will not have the disease. Choice C is also incorrect because if a person inherits one dominant gene and one recessive gene, they will not have the disease but will be a carrier. Choice D is not relevant to the inheritance of recessive genes.

Diseases Carried by Recessive Genes Are Inherited When ________