IGCSEBiologyEdexcelRevision Notes3. Reproduction & InheritanceInheritanceRandom Fertilisation & Genetic Variation

Random Fertilisation & Genetic Variation (Edexcel IGCSE Biology): Revision Note

Exam code: 4BI1

Lára Marie McIvor

Written by: Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewed by: Lucy Kirkham

Updated on

Edexcel BiologyEdexcel Science (Double Award) (Modular): Biology Unit 2Edexcel Biology (Modular): Unit 2Edexcel Science (Double Award): Biology

Random Fertilisation & Genetic Variation

  • Meiosis creates genetic variation between the gametes produced by an individual

  • This means each gamete carries substantially different alleles

  • During fertilisation, any male gamete can fuse with any female gamete to form a zygote

  • This random fusion of gametes at fertilisation creates genetic variation between zygotes as each will have a unique combination of alleles

  • Zygotes eventually grow and develop into adults

  • Examples of genetic variation in humans include:

    • Blood group

    • Eye colour

    • Ability to roll tongue

    • Whether ear lobes are free or fixed

Earlobes, IGCSE & GCSE Biology revision notes

Whether earlobes are attached (lobeless) or free (lobed) is an example of genetic variation

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Author
Reviewer
Lára Marie McIvor

Author: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Content Creator

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

Lucy Kirkham

Reviewer: Lucy Kirkham

Expertise: Content Creator

Lucy has been a passionate Maths teacher for over 12 years, teaching maths across the UK and abroad helping to engage, interest and develop confidence in the subject at all levels.Working as a Head of Department and then Director of Maths, Lucy has advised schools and academy trusts in both Scotland and the East Midlands, where her role was to support and coach teachers to improve Maths teaching for all.