Genetic Influcences

Question 1

dominant

Answer 1

An allele whose genetic instructions are followed regardless of the other alleles present. If there is a dominant allele in the gene pair, the instructions of the dominant allele will be followed.

Question 2

gene

Answer 2

A segment of DNA located at a specific site on a chromosome. Genes contain instructions, or “blueprints,” for the synthesis of proteins that make up all of the necessary structures and functions of the body.

Question 3

genotype

Answer 3

An individual’s entire set of genes. This is differentiated from phenotype, which is the outward expression of the genotype.

Question 4

mutation

Answer 4

A permanent change in the genetic makeup of an organism.

Question 5

nature-nurture

Answer 5

A question, issue, or controversy about how much can be attributed to heredity (nature) and how much to the environment (nurture) in the development of a person; this includes personality, intelligence, abilities, and mental health.

Question 6

phenotype

Answer 6

The physical expression of the genetic instructions contained in the genotype.

Question 7

recessive

Answer 7

An allele whose genetic instructions are only followed if there is no dominant allele present in the pair.