Genetics Flashcards
Inherited characteristics
Many physical characteristics such as eye colour and shape of ears were inherited from your parents. The instructions for these inherited characteristics were carried in the two cells that made you the egg and sperm
Chromosomes and genes
The nucleus of each sex cell (gamete) contains 23 thread like structures called
Chromosomes
Chromosomes are made of protein + DNA
These chromosomes carry genes
Genes
are chemicals found on chromosomes that pass on information from parents to children
DNA
Deoxyribonucleic acid
Classification
is the placing of organisms into groups, based on similar characteristics.This simplifies the study of organisms and allow scientists to communicate with each other. The basic unit of classification is the species.
Species
is a group of organisms that are capable of interbreeding to produce fertile offspring. (Liger = sterile offspring of a male lion and a female tiger) (A mule is the sterile offspring of a male donkey and a female horse)
Heredity
is a group of organisms that are capable of interbreeding to produce fertile offspring. (Liger = sterile offspring of a male lion and a female tiger) (A mule is the sterile offspring of a male donkey and a female horse)
Variation
means the differences in characteristics between members of the same species. Variations can be acquired (‘picked up’ during the life of the organism) e.g. riding a bicycle or inherited (genetic – can be passed on to next generation) e.g. tongue rolling.
Natural selection
is the process by which the members of a species who are best suited to their environment are most likely to survive and reproduce.
Variation caused by environment
where and how we live). Our body fat is caused by how much we eat and how much exercise we do, and any hormonal factors affecting our body.
Nature vs nurture
these two factors interact with each other. How tall a person
