Step 1: Analyze the Assertion (A):
The assertion posits that offspring from asexual reproduction are genetically identical to their parent(s). This statement is accurate because asexual reproduction inherently involves the duplication of genetic material from a single source, resulting in offspring that are clones or near-clones of the parent.
Step 2: Analyze the Reason (R):
The reason states that asexual reproduction involves a single parent. This is also factually correct. Asexual reproduction bypasses the fusion of gametes from two individuals. Offspring arise solely from the genetic material of one parent, thereby ensuring genetic likeness.
Step 3: Evaluate the Relationship:
- The assertion (A) is validated by the mechanism of asexual reproduction producing genetically similar offspring.
- The reason (R) is also validated as asexual reproduction is defined by the participation of a single parent.
- The reason (R) directly substantiates the assertion (A) because the single-parent nature of asexual reproduction is the direct cause of the genetic similarity observed in the offspring.
Step 4: Final Determination:
The accurate conclusion is: Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) provides the correct explanation for (A).