The number of contrasting characters studied by Mendel for his experiments was:

Options

A. 14
B. 4
C. 2
D. 7

Answer

To solve the question regarding the number of contrasting characters studied by Mendel in his experiments, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the Context
Mendel conducted experiments using pea plants to study inheritance patterns. He focused on contrasting traits to observe how they were passed from one generation to the next.

**Hint:** Think about the significance of contrasting traits in genetics.

### Step 2: Identify the Characters Studied
Mendel studied several traits in pea plants. The traits he focused on included:
1. Flower color
2. Pod color
3. Seed color
4. Seed shape
5. Pod shape
6. Flower position
7. Height of the plant

**Hint:** Recall that contrasting traits are those that have two distinct forms.

### Step 3: Count the Contrasting Characters
From the list above, we can count the number of contrasting characters Mendel studied. There are a total of 7 distinct traits.

**Hint:** Make sure to list them out to avoid missing any.

### Step 4: Choose the Correct Answer
The question provides multiple-choice options: 14, 4, 2, and 7. Based on our count, the correct answer is 7.

**Hint:** Compare your count with the options provided to ensure accuracy.

### Final Answer
The number of contrasting characters studied by Mendel for his experiments was **7**.

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