# Explain why a plant that reproduces by cross-pollination is more likely to survive a change in its environment than a plant that reproduces only by self-pollination.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 16.2 Sexual reproduction · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Cross-pollination produces greater genetic diversity / variation among offspring
2. Self-pollination produces offspring that are genetically similar / less diverse
3. Some individuals produced by cross-pollination may have advantageous genes / alleles that suit the changed environment
4. Those better-adapted individuals survive and pass on their genes / the species can evolve through natural selection

## Key terms

- [cross-pollination](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/cross-pollination)
- [self-pollination](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/self-pollination)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-a-plant-that-reproduces-2327e0b0) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.