Q16
3 marksShort AnswerSection A

With the help of one example for each, distinguish between the acquired traits and the inherited traits. Why are the traits/experiences acquired during the entire lifetime of an individual not inherited in the next generation? Explain the reason of this fact with an example.

Also asked in:2017
Heredity
Acquired and Inherited Traits
Official Answer

Acquired traits are characteristics that an individual develops during its lifetime, such as scars or knowledge, whereas inherited traits are characteristics that are passed down from parents to offspring through genes. For example, a person may acquire a scar on their skin due to an injury, but this scar is not inherited by their offspring. On the other hand, eye color is an inherited trait that is determined by genes passed down from parents. The reason why acquired traits are not inherited is that they are not encoded in the genes of the individual. Genes are the units of heredity, and they determine the characteristics of an individual. Acquired traits are not encoded in genes and therefore cannot be passed down to offspring.

Acquired and Inherited TraitsInherited and Acquired Traits

Marking Scheme

  • 13 marks

Analysis & Explanation

Acquired traits are characteristics that an individual develops during its lifetime, such as scars or knowledge, whereas inherited traits are characteristics that are passed down from parents to offspring through genes. The reason why acquired traits are not inherited is that they are not encoded in the genes of the individual. Genes are the units of heredity, and they determine the characteristics of an individual. Acquired traits are not encoded in genes and therefore cannot be passed down to offspring.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many marks does this question carry in CBSE Class 10 Science 2017?

This question carries 3 marks in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2017 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 "Acquired and Inherited Traits" from CBSE Class 10 Science.

Has this question appeared in other CBSE Science papers?

Yes, a similar question appeared in the 2017 CBSE Class 10 Science paper.

What type of question is this in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2017 paper?

This is a Short Answer question from Section A in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2017 paper.