What inheritance pattern is described by an autosomal dominant trait?

The description of an autosomal dominant trait indicates that it is linked to an allele that will manifest its characteristics with just a single copy present. Therefore, if an individual inherits one copy of the dominant allele from either parent, the trait associated with that allele will be expressed. This means that individuals with the dominant allele demonstrate the trait, regardless of whether they have one or two copies of that allele.

In the context of inheritance patterns, this is significant because it implies that the trait can be passed from an affected parent to offspring with a 50% probability, even if the other parent does not carry the trait. This characteristic distinguishes autosomal dominant traits from those that are autosomal recessive, which require both copies of the allele to be expressed.

The other options describe different inheritance patterns or characteristics that do not align with the definition of an autosomal dominant trait. By clearly understanding that autosomal dominant traits require only one copy of the allele for expression, one can better recognize and analyze inheritance patterns in genetic studies.