5

Set 1: Inferences (Advanced)

Explanation

Answer: B

PASSAGE

Epigenetic research has revealed that environmental factors can alter gene expression without changing DNA sequences. Some studies suggest trauma experienced by parents may affect children's stress responses through epigenetic mechanisms—a finding that challenges the strict separation between inherited traits and acquired characteristics central to traditional genetics.

What conceptual boundary does epigenetics blur?

A. The distinction between DNA and RNA.
B. The divide between what is inherited and what is environmentally acquired.✓ Correct
C. Epigenetics confirms that only genes determine traits.
D. Parents' experiences have no effect on children.

Detailed Explanation

'Challenges the strict separation between inherited traits and acquired characteristics' = blurring that divide.

Key Evidence:

• "challenges the strict separation between inherited and acquired"

Why others are wrong: A (DNA/RNA distinction isn't the focus.), C (Environment affects expression—not genes alone.), D (Parents' trauma may affect children's responses.).

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