Fraternal twins are no more genetically similar than regular siblings. Which term describes these twins?

Delve into the IB Psychology Biological Approach. Practice with multiple choice questions, each offering detailed explanations. Enhance your knowledge and boost your readiness for the exam!

Multiple Choice

Fraternal twins are no more genetically similar than regular siblings. Which term describes these twins?

Explanation:
Fraternal twins are dizygotic; they come from two separate eggs fertilized by two different sperm, so they share about 50% of their genes, just like regular siblings. That genetic similarity matches that of ordinary siblings, not the higher similarity seen with identical twins. Identical twins come from a single fertilized egg that splits, giving nearly the same genetic material, while conjoined twins are typically monozygotic cases that remain physically joined. So the best term for fraternal twins is dizygotic.

Fraternal twins are dizygotic; they come from two separate eggs fertilized by two different sperm, so they share about 50% of their genes, just like regular siblings. That genetic similarity matches that of ordinary siblings, not the higher similarity seen with identical twins. Identical twins come from a single fertilized egg that splits, giving nearly the same genetic material, while conjoined twins are typically monozygotic cases that remain physically joined. So the best term for fraternal twins is dizygotic.

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