Developmental Beginnings

Question 0

Dominant Gene

Answer 0

In any paired set of genes, the gene with the greater influence in determining physical characteristics that are physically visible or manifest

Question 1

DNA

Answer 1

Deoxyribonucleic Acid
Long, double-stranded molecules that make up chromosomes. The complex protein code of genetic information that directs the form and function of each body cell as it develops

Question 2

Gene

Answer 2

A molecular structure carried on chromosomes, containing genetic information; the basic unit of heredity

Question 3

Genotype

Answer 3

The set of genetic traits inherited by an individual

Question 4

Meiosis

Answer 4

The process of cell division through which gametes are formed and the number of chromosomes in each cell is halved. It is a process of reduction and division, which ensures that at fertilisation, when the egg and sperm unite, the fertilised egg contains the normal 23 pairs of genes

Question 5

Mitosis

Answer 5

The process of cell duplication in which each new cell receives an exact copy of the original chromosomes and is identical in genetic makeup to the original

Question 6

Phenotype

Answer 6

The set of traits an individual actually displays during development; reflects the evolving product of genotype and experience

Question 7

Range of Reaction

Answer 7

The range of possible phenotypes that an individual with a particular genotype might exhibit in response to the particular sequence of environmental influences they experience

Question 8

Recessive Gene

Answer 8

In any paired set of genes, the gene that influences or determines physical characteristics only when no dominant gene is present

Question 9

Sex-linked Recessive Traits

Answer 9

Recessive traits resulting from genes on the X chromosome

Question 10

Canalisation

Answer 10

The tendency of many developmental processes to unfold in highly predictable ways under a wide range of conditions

Question 11

Cephalocaudal Principle

Answer 11

The tendency for organs, reflexes and skills to develop sooner at the top (or head) of the body and later in areas further down the body; an organised pattern of physical growth proceeding from head to tail

Question 12

Critical Period

Answer 12

A specific time during development when development is particularly susceptible to an event or influence, either negative or positive. Certain types of stimuli are necessary for development to proceed normally

Question 13

Embryonic Stage

Answer 13

The stage in prenatal development that lasts from week 2 to week 8

Question 14

Foetal Stage

Answer 14

The stage in prenatal development that lasts from week 8 of pregnancy until birth

Question 15

Germinal Stage

Answer 15

The stage in prenatal development that occurs during the first 2 weeks of pregnancy; characterised by rapid cell division. Also called the period of the ovum

Question 16

Proximodistal Principle

Answer 16

Organised pattern of growth that exhibits a near-to-far pattern of development, from the centre of the body outward

Question 17

Teratogen

Answer 17

Any substance or other environmental influence ingested by the mother that can harm the developing embryo or foetus during the prenatal period

Question 18

Zygote

Answer 18

The single new cell formed when a sperm cell attaches itself to the surface of an ovum