Eukaryotic cells can divide by mitosis or meiosis. In humans, mitosis produces new cells for growth and repair. And, meiosis produces sex cells (gametes), called sperm and eggs. Changes or mutations in genes in sex cells can be inherited by human offspring. Genetic variation in a population of organisms is good; however, sometimes mutations can be harmful or cause genetic disorders.
Briefly, answer the following questions:
1. How do meiosis and sexual reproduction (fertilization) produce offspring that differ genetically from the parents?
2. Describe one example of a human disorder that is inherited and also describe the specific inheritance pattern. For this example, pick disorders that result from mutations in DNA or chromosome number rather than examples such as a genetic tendency for a disorder such as cancer.