Why are pea plants considered a good model system for studying heredity in Mendel's experiments?

• A. They have a short generation time and produce a large number of offspring.
• B. They are resistant to most plant diseases.
• C. They require minimal care and maintenance.
• D. They can only be grown in specific climates.

Answer: (A)

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1. Pea plants have a short generation time, which means they grow and reproduce quickly. This allows researchers to observe multiple generations in a relatively short period, making it easier to study hereditary patterns.
2. Pea plants produce a large number of offspring. This is beneficial for studying heredity because it provides a substantial sample size, which helps in identifying patterns and drawing conclusions about genetic inheritance.
3. Pea plants are resistant to most plant diseases, which ensures that the results of genetic experiments are not confounded by disease-related variables. This resistance allows for clearer observations of hereditary traits.
4. Pea plants require minimal care and maintenance, making them an efficient choice for experiments. This ease of cultivation means that researchers can focus more on the experimental design and data collection rather than plant upkeep.
5. Pea plants can be grown in a variety of climates, which makes them accessible for study in different geographical locations. This adaptability ensures that experiments can be replicated and verified in diverse environments.