Living Environment Regents Practice Test

What do lion cubs inherit that causes them to resemble their parents?

1. Alleles identical to their parents

2. Proteins that are unique to them

3. Defects in genetic material

4. Enzymes identical to some of their parent's enzymes

The correct answer is: Enzymes identical to some of their parent's enzymes

The most accurate response regarding what lion cubs inherit that leads them to resemble their parents is the option addressing alleles identical to their parents. Alleles are different versions of a gene that can determine various traits, such as fur color and physical features. Each parent will contribute a set of alleles to their offspring during reproduction, which are responsible for the inherited characteristics observed in lion cubs. Cubs inherit a combination of alleles from both parents, which creates a genetic blueprint that combines traits from both. This genetic inheritance process is fundamental in all sexually reproducing organisms, including lions, and accounts for the similarity in appearance between parents and their offspring. The other options mention proteins and enzymes, which relate to biological functions, but these do not directly explain the resemblance in physical traits. The unique proteins and sometimes enzymes present in cubs can result from the interactions of the inherited alleles, but they do not serve as the primary mechanism for physical resemblance. Genetic defects would not typically lead to resemblance, as they can introduce changes or variations instead.