jfbwqeluidh1oe Flashcards
(26 cards)
What is DNA?
DNA is defined as an organism’s genetic material
DNA contains the instructions necessary for the development and functioning of living organisms.
What is a nucleotide?
A nucleotide is a molecule made up of a nitrogen base, a sugar, and a phosphate group
Nucleotides are the building blocks of DNA and RNA.
What is the process of copying a DNA molecule called?
The process of copying a DNA molecule to make another DNA molecule is called replication
Replication is essential for cell division and reproduction.
What is RNA?
RNA is defined as a type of nucleic acid that carries the code for making proteins from the nucleus to the cytoplasm
RNA plays a crucial role in translating genetic information into functional proteins.
What is transcription?
The process of making mRNA from DNA is called transcription
Transcription occurs in the nucleus where the DNA is located.
What is translation?
The process of making a protein from RNA is called translation
Translation occurs in the ribosomes where proteins are synthesized.
What is a mutation?
A mutation is a permanent change in a sequence of DNA
Mutations can lead to changes in protein function and can affect an organism’s traits.
What is deletion in the context of mutations?
Deletion is a type of mutation in which one or more nitrogen bases are left out of the DNA
This can result in a frameshift mutation affecting the entire protein sequence.
What is substitution in the context of mutations?
A substitution is a type of mutation in which a nitrogen base is replaced by a different base
This can lead to a change in a single amino acid in a protein.
What is insertion in the context of mutations?
An insertion is a type of mutation in which one or more nitrogen bases are added to the DNA
Like deletion, insertion can also cause a frameshift mutation.
What are inherited traits?
Slight differences and inherited traits among individual members of a species are called heritage traits
These traits can be influenced by genetic variation.
What is natural selection?
Natural selection is the process by which individuals with variations that helped them survive in the environment live longer, compete better, and reproduce more
This mechanism drives evolution by favoring advantageous traits.
What is an adaptation?
An adaptation is an inherited trait that helps a species survive in the environment
Adaptations can be structural, behavioral, or functional.
What is camouflage?
Camouflage is an adaptation that enables a species to blend in with its environment
This helps organisms avoid predators or enhance hunting.
What is mimicry?
The resemblance of one species to another species is called mimicry
This adaptation can provide protection against predators.
What is structural adaptation?
Structural adaptation involves color, shape, and other physical characteristics
These adaptations are often visible and can enhance survival.
What is behavioral adaptation?
Behavioral adaptation involves how an organism interacts with its environment
This includes actions such as migration and feeding habits.
What is functional adaptation?
Functional adaptation involves internal body systems that affect biochemistry
These adaptations can include changes in metabolic processes.
Who developed the theory of evolution?
Charles Darwin developed the theory of evolution in the mid-1800s after serving as a naturalist on the HMS Beagle in the Galapagos Islands
His observations led to the formulation of natural selection.
Who built a model of DNA structure?
James Watson and Francis Crick built a model that showed how the small molecules of DNA bond together and form a double helix
Their model was crucial for understanding DNA replication and function.
Which species did Peter and Rosemary Grant study?
Peter and Rosemary Grant studied the Galapagos Islands finches
Their research provided insights into natural selection and adaptation.
Which species did Charles Darwin study?
Charles Darwin studied tortoises while at the Galapagos Islands
The variations among tortoise shells contributed to his ideas on evolution.
What is artificial selection?
The selection and breeding of organisms for desired traits refers to the process known as artificial selection
This process is commonly used in agriculture and animal breeding.
