Reproduction And Genetics Flashcards
What are the three main principles of the cell theory?
1) All living things are composed of cells. 2) Cells are the basic unit of structure and function. 3) All cells come from pre-existing cells.
How do sexual and asexual reproduction differ?
Sexual reproduction involves two parents and produces genetic diversity, while asexual reproduction involves one parent and produces identical offspring.
Why is sexual reproduction beneficial for a species’ survival?
It increases genetic diversity, which can help a species adapt to changing environments.
What is the role of gametes in sexual reproduction?
Gametes (sperm and egg) carry genetic information from each parent and fuse to form a new organism.
What is fertilisation, and what are the two types?
Fertilisation is the fusion of male and female gametes. It can be internal (inside the body) or external (outside the body, e.g., in water).
What are the main structures of the male and female reproductive systems?
Male: testes, vas deferens, penis. Female: ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, vagina.
What are the main functions of male and female reproductive organs?
Male organs produce and deliver sperm; female organs produce eggs, enable fertilisation, and support embryo development.
What is the path of gametes for fertilisation?
Sperm travels through the vagina, cervix, and uterus to reach the egg in the fallopian tube, where fertilisation occurs.
Where does fertilisation occur in humans?
In the fallopian tubes.
What is in vitro fertilisation (IVF)?
IVF involves retrieving eggs and sperm, fertilising them outside the body, and implanting the embryo into the uterus.
What is heredity?
Heredity is the passing of traits from parents to offspring.
What is the difference between dominant and recessive alleles?
Dominant alleles express their traits even with one copy; recessive alleles need two copies to express the trait.
Why is Mendel’s experiment considered reliable and valid?
Mendel’s experiment had a large sample size, clear patterns, and repeatable results, making it reliable and valid.
How would you determine the offspring traits from a dominant-recessive allele pair?
Use a Punnett square to predict the trait outcomes based on allele pairs.
What’s the difference between a phenotype and a genotype?
Genotype is the genetic makeup, while phenotype is the physical expression of those genes.
What symbols are used in a pedigree chart?
Squares represent males, circles represent females, and shaded shapes show individuals with a trait.
How do you trace a trait in a pedigree?
Follow the shapes and shading through generations to see how the trait is inherited.
What are some key structures in plant and animal cells?
Both have a nucleus, cytoplasm, and membrane. Plant cells also have a cell wall and chloroplasts.
How are cells, the nucleus, chromosomes, and DNA related?
DNA is in chromosomes within the nucleus, which is inside the cell.
What are genes, chromosomes, and DNA?
DNA is the molecule carrying genetic info; chromosomes are DNA structures; genes are DNA segments coding for traits.
What is mitosis, and why is it important?
Mitosis is asexual reproduction for growth and repair in multicellular organisms.
Why is meiosis important in reproduction?
Meiosis creates haploid gametes (sperm and egg), which are essential for fertilisation.
What is the structure of DNA?
DNA has a double helix structure with two strands twisted and connected by base pairs.
What is the base pairing rule in DNA?
Adenine pairs with Thymine, and Cytosine pairs with Guanine.
Why must DNA replicate exactly?
Exact replication ensures genetic information is accurately passed to new cells.
How does DNA code for proteins?
DNA sequences (genes) are transcribed and translated to create specific proteins.
What is a mutation?
A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence of a cell.
What is biotechnology?
Biotechnology involves using living organisms or systems to develop products.
How can a gene be transferred between organisms?
Through genetic engineering, a gene is inserted from one organism into another to express a desired trait.
What’s a method used for genetic modification?
CRISPR is a method that edits specific genes to alter an organism’s traits.
How is genetic engineering used in agriculture and medicine?
GM crops resist pests, and genetically engineered insulin treats diabetes.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of GM foods?
Advantages: increased yield, pest resistance. Disadvantages: environmental concerns, ethical issues.
What did the Human Genome Project achieve?
It mapped all human genes, aiding in genetic research and personalized medicine.
