Give one example each of characters that are inherited and the ones that are acquired in humans. Mention the difference between the inherited and the acquired characters.
Give one example each of characters that are inherited and the ones that are acquired in humans. Mention the difference between the inherited and the acquired characters.
In humans, an example of an inherited character is the type of earlobes (free or attached), while an example of an acquired character is the ability to speak a specific language or a scar on the skin.
Difference between Inherited and Acquired Characters:
- Inherited Characters: These are traits controlled by the DNA (genes) in the germ cells. They are passed from parents to the next generation because they involve the genetic material that is replicated and transferred during reproduction.
- Acquired Characters: These are traits developed by an individual during their lifetime due to environmental influences, experiences, or physical use/disuse. These do not cause changes in the DNA of the germ cells and, therefore, cannot be passed on to the progeny.
Marking Scheme
- 10.5 marks
- 20.5 marks
- 30.5 marks
- 40.5 marks
Hint
Think about which traits you are born with (coded in your DNA) versus which ones you develop through practice or environment.
Quick Oral Answer
Inherited traits are those we get from our parents through genes, like eye color or earlobe shape. Acquired traits are things we learn or happen to us during our life, like learning to ride a bike. Only inherited traits are passed to the next generation because they are part of our DNA in the germ cells.
Analysis & Explanation
According to the text in Section 8.2.3, cellular DNA is the information source for making proteins, and genes (sections of DNA) control characteristics. Inherited traits, such as the earlobe types mentioned in Activity 8.1, are determined by the DNA contributed equally by both parents through germ cells. Because germ cells carry these 'gene sets' to the offspring, these traits are reliably inherited. In contrast, acquired traits (like muscle building or learning) affect only somatic (body) cells and do not alter the DNA sequence within the germ cells (sperm or eggs). Since the 'rules of heredity' (Section 8.2) depend on the transmission of genetic material, only changes in the DNA of germ cells result in inherited variations.
Common Mistakes
- 1Confusing 'acquired' traits with 'inherited' variations that occur due to DNA copying inaccuracies.
- 2Thinking that physical changes in the parent's body (like losing a limb) can be inherited by the child.
Interesting Facts
Mendel was the first to use mathematics and counting to explain how inherited traits are passed down, even though he didn't know about the structure of DNA at the time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many marks does this question carry in CBSE Class 10 Science 2010?
This question carries 2 marks in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2010 examination.
Which chapter does this question come from in Science?
This question is from the chapter "Heredity" in the CBSE Class 10 Science syllabus.
What topic does this question cover in Science?
This question covers the topic "Inherited and Acquired Traits" from CBSE Class 10 Science.
What type of question is this in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2010 paper?
This is a Short Answer question from Section B in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2010 paper.