# Explain why sexual reproduction in animals produces offspring that are not genetically identical to either parent.

> Pearson Edexcel A-Level Biology A (9BI0) — 2.3 Sexual reproduction in animals and plants · Explain · 5 marks

> Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of two gametes to form a zygote. Gametes are produced by a process that results in haploid cells.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Gametes are haploid / contain a single copy of each chromosome
2. Gametes are produced from two different parents / one gamete from each parent
3. Fertilisation / fusion of gametes produces a diploid zygote
4. The zygote contains a combination of genetic material / chromosomes from both parents
5. This mixing of genetic material / variation in which gametes fuse means offspring are not genetically identical to either parent

## Related

- [Revision notes for Pearson Edexcel A-Level Biology A (9BI0)](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)

---
Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-sexual-reproduction-in-animals-79dc135a) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.