Tabulate two distinguishing features between acquired traits and inherited traits with one example of each.
Tabulate two distinguishing features between acquired traits and inherited traits with one example of each.
Official answer
The distinguishing features between inherited and acquired traits are tabulated below:
| Feature | Inherited Traits | Acquired Traits |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Traits that are passed from parents to offspring through genetic material (DNA). | Traits developed by an individual during their lifetime due to environmental conditions, learning, or use/disuse of organs. |
| Genetic Basis | Involve changes in the DNA of germ cells (reproductive cells). | Do not involve changes in the DNA of germ cells (only affect somatic cells). |
| Transmission | Transmitted to the next generation. | Cannot be transmitted to the next generation. |
| Example | Free or attached earlobes, eye color, plant height. | Learning to play the piano, loss of weight due to starvation, a scar from an injury. |
Marking scheme
- 1.Tabulating at least two correct distinguishing features (e.g., genetic basis, transmission) (2 marks)
- 2.Providing one correct example for each trait (1 mark)
Hint
Think about whether a trait changes your DNA (germ cells) or is just a physical change/skill you develop during your life.
Quick oral answer
Inherited traits are passed from parents to offspring through germ-cell DNA (like earlobe type), whereas acquired traits are developed during a lifetime and cannot be passed on (like swimming).
Common mistakes
- 1.Believing that physical changes like muscle building or weight loss can be inherited by offspring.
- 2.Not specifying that inherited traits must involve changes in the DNA of *germ cells* specifically, rather than just any cell.
Analysis and explanation
Inherited traits are coded in the DNA of germ cells (sperms and eggs). Because they are part of the genetic material, they are reliably passed down to offspring according to Mendelian rules. Acquired traits, on the other hand, only affect somatic (body) cells. Since somatic DNA is not passed to the next generation during reproduction, these traits die with the individual and do not contribute to evolutionary changes.
Interesting facts
Even if a mouse's tail is cut off in every generation, its offspring will always be born with tails because the somatic injury does not alter the DNA in its germ cells!
Question details
Q12 of 40 questions
- Board
- CBSE
- Class
- Class 10
- Subject
- Science
- Year
- 2013
- Section
- Section A
- Marks
- 3
- Type
- Short Answer
- Chapter
- Heredity
- Topic
- Inherited and Acquired Traits
- Bloom's level
- Understanding
- Syllabus topic
- Inherited Traits
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Frequently asked questions
How many marks does this question carry in CBSE Class 10 Science 2013?
This question carries 3 marks in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2013 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 2013 paper?
This is a Short Answer question from Section A in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2013 paper.