Sexual reproduction

Question 1

what is sexual reproduction

Answer 1

Sexual reproduction is a specific reproductive strategy that involves the fusion of two haploid gametes, a process known as fertilisation, to form a single, genetically unique, diploid zygote.
Each parent makes genetic contribution to each of its offspring in the form of DNA from their gametes

Question 2

what is pollination

Answer 2

Pollination is the act of transferring pollen grains from the male anther of a flower to the female stigma.

Question 3

how does pollination occur

Answer 3

Pollen transfer in plants typically relies on a pollinator to move the pollen from one plant to another. These pollinators can be abiotic or biotic

Question 4

examples of abiotic pollinators

Answer 4

non-living methods such as wind or water. This method allows the plant to focus on maximising pollen dispersion rather than attracting pollinators. Such plants will often lack colourful petals and smells and will hang downwards to enable wind dispersion

Question 5

examples of biotic pollinators

Answer 5

living organisms such as insects or birds which are often attracted to the brightly coloured petals, inviting smell, and nutrient-rich nectar.

Question 6

what are the advantages of sexual reproduction

Answer 6

genetic diversity, disease resistent, reduction in the chance of inheriting a genetic disorder carried by one parent

Question 7

disadvantages of sexual reproduction

Answer 7

attract a mate (energy, resources), transferable disease in sexual intercourse, lose of offspring to outside influences