One sample of mixed varieties of seed is planted in barren soil; another sample from the same seed package is planted in soil that is extremely fertile. When the plants are fully grown, there are differences in height, both within each group of plants and between the two groups. Which of the following is true?

A) Both within- and between-group differences are genetic in origin.
B) Both within- and between-group differences are due to environmental differences.
C) Within-group differences are genetic in origin, while between-group differences are due to environmental differences.
D) Within-group differences are due to environmental differences, while between-group differences are genetic in origin.

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Harish Kumaran · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : C, Explanation :  Within-group differences in height among plants grown in the same type of soil are likely due to genetic differences among the seeds, as the environmental conditions (soil quality) are the same for all plants within each group. Between-group differences, on the other hand, are attributed to the different soil conditions (barren vs. fertile), which is an environmental factor.

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