Which reproductive process determines the traits present in the cluster of cells?

The reproductive process that determines the traits present in the cluster of cells is sexual reproduction. Here's a step-by-step explanation:

1. Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of male and female gametes in a process known as fertilization. Each gamete carries half the number of chromosomes of a normal cell. These chromosomes carry genes, which are the units of heredity.

2. When the sperm (male gamete) fertilizes the egg (female gamete), the resulting cell, known as a zygote, contains a complete set of chromosomes. This is half from the mother and half from the father.

3. The zygote then begins to divide and grow into a cluster of cells through a process called mitosis. During this process, the genetic information in the original zygote is copied and passed on to each new cell.

4. The genes within these cells determine the traits of the organism. These can include physical characteristics like eye color and height, as well as susceptibility to certain diseases.

5. Therefore, the traits present in the cluster of cells are determined by the genetic information passed on from both parents during sexual reproduction.