Genetics definitions

Question 1

allele

Answer 1

Different version of the same gene

Question 2

anticodon

Answer 2

Part of a tRNA molecule that is complementary to the codon on a corresponding molecule of mRNA

Question 3

chromosome

Answer 3

A long coiled molecule of DNA that carries genetic information in the form of genes

Question 4

Codominance

Answer 4

When two different alleles are both expressed in the phenotype

Question 5

codon

Answer 5

A sequence of three bases on the mRNA molecule. Each codon corresponds to a particular amino acid.

Question 6

Complementary base pairing

Answer 6

Describe how the bases in the nucleic acids pair. A, T. C, G.

Question 7

Diploid

Answer 7

Refers to a cell that contains two sets of chromosomes i.e almost every body cell except gametes. A diploid human cell contains 46 chromosomes.

Question 8

DNA

Answer 8

A double-stranded polymer wound to form a double helix that carries the genetic code. Each polymer strand contains long sequences of four bases: adenine, cytosine, guanine and thymine

Question 9

Dominant

Answer 9

Describes an allele that is always expressed regardless of the other allele. Represented by a capital letter.

Question 10

Evolution

Answer 10

The gradual change in the inherited traits within a population over time. Occurs due to natural selection.

Question 11

Gene

Answer 11

A section of DNA that codes for a specific sequence of amino acids which undergo polymerisation to form a protein.