Introduction to Genetics

Question 1

What is genetics?

Answer 1

Genetics is the study of heredity and how traits are passed from parents to offspring.

Question 2

What is heredity?

Answer 2

Heredity is the transmission of genetic material from one generation to the next.

Question 3

What is a gene?

Answer 3

A gene is a segment of DNA that codes for a protein, determining a particular trait.

Question 4

What is an allele?

Answer 4

An allele is a different version of a gene, which can be dominant or recessive.

Question 5

What are chromosomes?

Answer 5

Chromosomes are structures within the nucleus made of DNA, containing many genes.

Question 6

What does it mean to be homozygous for a gene?

Answer 6

Being homozygous means having two identical alleles for a gene (e.g., AA or aa).

Question 7

What does it mean to be heterozygous for a gene?

Answer 7

Being heterozygous means having two different alleles for a gene (e.g., Aa).

Question 8

What is the difference between a dominant and recessive allele?

Answer 8

A dominant allele is expressed when at least one copy is present, while a recessive allele is only expressed when two copies are present.

Question 9

How do genes influence traits?

Answer 9

Genes code for proteins that determine an organism’s traits.

Question 10

Why are chromosomes important in genetics?

Answer 10

Chromosomes carry genetic information in the form of genes, allowing inheritance of traits.