Step 1: Understanding the Assertion (A):
The assertion states that offspring produced by asexual reproduction are genetically similar to the parents. This is true because asexual reproduction involves the replication of the genetic material from a single parent, leading to offspring that are genetically identical or very similar to the parent.
Step 2: Understanding the Reason (R):
The reason states that asexual reproduction involves a single parent. This is also true. Asexual reproduction occurs without the involvement of gametes from two parents. The offspring are produced from the genetic material of just one parent, which leads to genetic similarity between the parent and the offspring.
Step 3: Explanation of the Relationship Between Assertion and Reason:
- The assertion (A) is true because asexual reproduction leads to genetically similar offspring.
- The reason (R) is also true because asexual reproduction involves only one parent.
- The reason directly explains the assertion since the involvement of a single parent in asexual reproduction results in genetically identical offspring.
Step 4: Conclusion:
The correct answer is: Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).