# A child inherits the allele for attached earlobes from both parents. The allele for attached earlobes is recessive. Explain why the child has attached earlobes.

> Eduqas GCSE Biology — 2.3.2 Inheritance · Explain · 4 marks

> In humans, earlobe shape is controlled by a single gene. The allele for free earlobes is dominant. The allele for attached earlobes is recessive.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. The child has two copies of the recessive allele (one from each parent)
2. The child is homozygous for the recessive allele
3. There is no dominant allele present to mask the recessive allele
4. Therefore the recessive characteristic (attached earlobes) is expressed in the phenotype

## Key terms

- [allele](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/allele)
- [recessive](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/recessive)

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- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Biology](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-child-inherits-the-allele-for-6e2ddc84) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.