# Explain why two organisms that reproduce sexually are unlikely to produce offspring with identical phenotypes to each other.

> WJEC GCSE Biology (Wales) — 2.4.1 Variation · Explain · 4 marks

> Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of gametes from two parents. The offspring inherit alleles from both parents.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Sexual reproduction produces genetic variation in offspring
2. Each parent contributes one allele for each gene, so offspring inherit alleles from both parents
3. Different combinations of dominant and recessive alleles are possible, leading to different genotypes
4. Different genotypes result in different phenotypes / the physical characteristics expressed depend on the alleles inherited

## Key terms

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

## Related

- [Revision notes for WJEC GCSE Biology (Wales)](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-two-organisms-that-reproduce-d2d95275) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.