Chapter 2 Key Terms

Question 0

One of the 46 molecules of DNA (23 pairs) that each cell of the human body contains and that, together, contain all the genes.

Answer 0

Chromosome

Question 1

The molecule that contains the chemical instructions for cells to manufacture various proteins.

Answer 1

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid)

Question 2

A reproductive cell; that is, a sperm or ovum that can produce a new individual if it combines with a gamete from the other sex to form a zygote.

Answer 2

Gamete

Question 3

An organism’s entire genetic inheritance, or genetic potential.

Answer 3

Genotype

Question 4

The observable characteristics of a person, including appearance, personality, intelligence, and all other traits.

Answer 4

Phenotype

Question 5

The full set of genes that are the instructions to make an individual member of a certain species.

Answer 5

Genome

Question 6

Referring to a trait that is influenced by many genes

Answer 6

Polygenic

Question 7

Referring to a trait that is affected by many factors, both genetic and environmental.

Answer 7

Multifactorial

Question 8

A gene that directs the interactions of other genes, controlling their expression, duplication, and transcription.

Answer 8

Regulator gene

Question 9

A gene that adds something to some aspect of the phenotype. Its contribution depends on additions from the other genes, which may come from either the same or the other parent.

Answer 9

Additive gene

Question 10

A statistic that indicates what percentage of the variation in a particular trait within a particular population, in a particular context and era, can be traced to genes

Answer 10

Heritability

Question 11

Consultation and testing by trained experts that enable individuals to learn about their genetic heritage, including harmful conditions that they might pass along to any children they conceive

Answer 11

Genetic counseling

Question 12

The organ that surrounds the developing embryo and fetus, sustaining life via the umbilical cord. It is attached to the wall of the pregnant woman’s uterus.

Answer 12

Placenta

Question 13

The age (about 22 weeks after conception) at which a fetus may survive outside the mother’s uterus if specialized medical care is available.

Answer 13

Age of viability

Question 14

A woman who helps with the birth process. They are trained to offer support to new mothers, including massage and suggestions for breast-feeding positions.

Answer 14

Doula

Question 15

A body weight at birth of less than 5 1/2 pounds

Answer 15

Lowe birthweight (LBW)

Question 16

Having a body weight at birth that is significantly lower than expected, given the time since conception.

Answer 16

Small for gestational age (SGA)

Question 17

A child-care technique in which the mother of a low-birthweight infant holds the baby between her breasts.

Answer 17

Kangaroo care

Question 18

The sadness and inadequacy felt by some new mothers in the days and weeks after giving birth

Answer 18

Postpartum depression

Question 19

The strong, loving connection that forms as parents hold, examine, and feed their newborn.

Answer 19

Parent-infant bond

Question 20

Agents and conditions, including viruses, drugs, and chemicals, that can impair prenatal development and result in birth defects or even death.

Answer 20

Teratogens