# Explain why offspring produced by sexual reproduction show variation, while offspring produced by asexual reproduction are genetically identical to the parent.

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

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of two gametes (fertilisation)
2. Offspring inherit genetic material / alleles from two parents, producing new combinations of alleles
3. Asexual reproduction involves mitosis / cell division producing genetically identical cells
4. Offspring in asexual reproduction receive genetic material from only one parent, so no new allele combinations are formed

## Key terms

- [sexual reproduction](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/sexual-reproduction)
- [asexual reproduction](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/asexual-reproduction)
- [variation](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/variation)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Biology](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-offspring-produced-by-sexual-3e686299) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.