Genetics

Question 1

Genetics

Answer 1

The study of heredity. How characteristics and traits are passed from parents to offspring.

Question 2

Gene

Answer 2

A sequence of DNA that codes for a specific protein.

Question 3

Allele

Answer 3

One of multiple forms of a gene, inherited from each parent.

Question 4

Genotype

Answer 4

The genetic makeup of an organism. The combination of alleles at a specific locus.

Question 5

Phenotype

Answer 5

The observable characteristics of an organism. Resulting from a relationship between the genotype and environment.

Question 6

Chromosome

Answer 6

A threadlike structure in the nucleus of a cell that carries genetic information, composing of DNA.

Question 7

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid)

Answer 7

The molecule that carries genetic information, composed of base pairs.

Question 8

Mutation

Answer 8

A change in the DNA sequence, which can lead to altered traits.

Question 9

Dominant

Answer 9

An allele that is expressed when present in a heterozygous genotype.

Question 10

Recessive

Answer 10

An allele that is only expressed in a homozygous genotype.

Question 11

Homozygous

Answer 11

Having two identical alleles for a particular gene.

Question 12

Heterozygous

Answer 12

Having two different alleles for a particular gene.

Question 13

Locus

Answer 13

The specific position of a gene on a chromosome.

Question 14

Genome

Answer 14

The complete set of genetic information in an organism.

Question 15

Inheritance

Answer 15

The passing of genetic traits from parents to offspring.

Question 16

Genetic variation

Answer 16

Differences in DNA sequences between individuals within a population.

Question 17

Epigenetics

Answer 17

The study of changes in gene expression that are not caused by changes in the DNA sequence itself.

Question 18

Amino acid

Answer 18

A small molecule that serves as the fundamental building block of proteins.

Question 19

Autosome

Answer 19

A numbered chromosome that is not a sex chromosome.

Question 20

Protein

Answer 20

Complex molecules that do most of the work in cells.

Question 21

Co-dominance

Answer 21

A type of inheritance where two different versions of a gene (alleles) are expressed equally and specifically in an organism.

Question 22

Ancestry

Answer 22

The genetic line of descent of an individual or family, and the information about their genetic relationships.

Question 23

Trait

Answer 23

A specific characteristic of an organism that is determined by its genes or influenced by its environment.

Question 24

Cell

Answer 24

The smallest unit of that can live on its own and that makes up all living organisms and the tissues of the body.

Question 25

Carrier

Answer 25

A person who has a mutated gene that can cause a disease, but does not have the disease symptoms themselves.