1 (all) Flashcards
Q: What is an allele?
A: A variant form of a gene that can produce different traits.
Q: What is a genotype?
A: The genetic makeup of an individual, consisting of alleles for a particular gene.
Q: What is a phenotype?
A: The observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an organism, determined by the genotype.
Q: What is a gene?
A: A segment of DNA that codes for a specific trait or function.
Q: What is a chromosome?
A: A thread-like structure made of DNA that contains genes.
Q: What is DNA?
A: Deoxyribonucleic acid, the molecule that carries genetic information in living organisms.
Q: What is a gamete?
A: A reproductive cell (sperm or egg) that carries half the genetic information of an individual.
Q: What does diploid mean?
A: A cell that contains two complete sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.
Q: What is a mutation?
A: A change in the DNA sequence that can lead to altered traits or functions.
Q: What does haploid mean?
A: A cell that contains only one set of chromosomes, typical of gametes.
Q: What is the structure of DNA that codes for inheritable characteristics?
Double helix
Q: What are the lengths of DNA that code for specific traits called?
Genes
Q: How is DNA passed from parents to offspring?
Gametes
Q: What process reduces the chromosome number by half in gametes?
Meiosis
Q: What does gene mapping and sequencing allow scientists to do?
A: Identify and locate mutations in DNA.
Q: What is the basic structure of a chromosome?
A: A structure made of DNA that contains many genes.
Q: Where is DNA typically found in eukaryotic cells?
Nucleus
Q: What does it mean for a cell to be haploid?
A: It contains one set of chromosomes.
Q: What does it mean for a cell to be diploid?
Contains two sets
Q: How do you apply the analogy of letters and words to DNA?
A: Nitrogen bases are letters, genes are words, chromosomes are sentences, and the genome is a complete text.
Q: What is the significance of complementary base pairing in DNA replication?
A: It ensures accurate copying of genetic information.
Q: What characterizes a dominant allele?
A: It is expressed in the phenotype with just one copy present.
Q: What characterizes a recessive allele?
A: It is expressed only when two copies are present.
Q: How would you identify the genotype of an individual with a dominant phenotype?
A: Perform a test cross with a homozygous recessive individual.
