Which reproductive process involves two parents combining genetic material to produce a new organism?

• A. DNA
• B. asexual reproduction
• C. sexual reproduction
• D. Adaptation

Answer: (C)

Sexual reproduction involves two parents contributing genetic material to produce a new organism. This process uses gametes—sperm and egg—that each carry half the usual number of chromosomes. When they unite during fertilization, they form a zygote with a full set of chromosomes, blending traits from both parents. This genetic mixing creates variation among offspring, which helps populations adapt over generations. DNA is simply the molecule that stores genetic information, not a reproductive process. Asexual reproduction uses one parent and produces offspring genetically identical to that parent. Adaptation refers to a trait or change that improves survival, not the method of producing offspring.