Chapter 15 - Inheritance Flashcards
1
Q
What is a gene?
A
The factor that determines a hereditary characteristic: part of a chromosome.
2
Q
What is a chromosome?
A
A rod like structure seen in the nucleus of a dividing cell.
3
Q
What does a chromosome do?
A
Carries hereditary information.
4
Q
How many pairs of chromosomes do human cells have?
A
23 pairs
5
Q
Why was Mendal lucky in his investigation?
A
Each of the characteristics he chose were controlled by genes located in a different pair of chromosomes.
6
Q
Where do chromosomes and genes occur?
A
In pairs in the zygote and in all somatic cells or body cells
7
Q
What is a somatic cell?
A
Any cell that makes up the body of an individual; not a gamete.
