Question

question 5
what is the difference between a somatic cell mutation and a germ - line mutation?
a only mutations in germ - line cells can be passed on to offspring and mutations in somatic cell are not.
b only mutations in somatic cells can be passed on to offspring.
c somatic cell mutations cannot lead to disease, but germ - line mutations can.
d germ - line mutations do not involve dna, but somatic cell mutations do.
e somatic cell mutations do not involve dna, but germ - line mutations do.

Explanation:

Somatic cells are non - reproductive body cells. Mutations in them affect only the individual and are not passed on. Germ - line cells are reproductive cells (sperm and egg). Mutations in germ - line cells can be passed on to offspring as they contribute genetic material to the next generation.

Answer:

A. Only mutations in germ - line cells can be passed on to offspring and mutations in somatic cell are not.