How are traits primarily passed from parents to offspring?

Traits are primarily passed from parents to offspring through genes via chromosomes. Genes are segments of DNA that carry the information necessary for the development and function of all living organisms. Each gene exists at a specific location on a chromosome, and these chromosomes are inherited from both parents during reproduction.

When a sperm and egg unite during fertilization, they create a zygote that contains a unique combination of genes from both parents, which dictates various traits the offspring will inherit, such as physical characteristics, susceptibility to certain diseases, and even certain behaviors influenced by genetics. The process of heredity ensures that these genetic instructions are passed down, allowing for continuity of traits from one generation to the next.

Environmental factors, hormones, and behavioral patterns do influence an individual’s development and can contribute to the expression of certain traits, but they do not serve as the primary means of passing traits from parents to offspring. Instead, these influences may modify how inherited traits are expressed throughout an individual's life.