SFC_ Flashcards
What is genetics?
The science that studies the inheritance and variation of organisms
Genetics is an important branch of biology.
Who is considered the father of modern genetics?
Gregor Mendel
Mendel’s work in the mid-19th century laid the foundation for modern genetics.
What are genes?
Units of heredity that obey simple statistical laws
Genes are located on DNA and were identified by Mendel.
Where are genes located?
On DNA
DNA is a chain-like molecule composed of four different nucleotides.
What is the structure of natural DNA?
Double-stranded
The two strands of DNA are complementary to each other.
What is the process by which DNA is replicated?
Each strand serves as a template to synthesize a new complementary strand
This process generates genes that can be inherited.
What is the genetic code?
The correspondence between nucleotide sequences on genes and amino acid sequences in proteins
This correspondence is crucial for protein synthesis.
What determines how a protein folds into its three-dimensional structure?
The amino acid sequence of the protein
The protein structure is closely linked to its function.
What role do proteins play in cells?
They execute almost all biological processes to maintain cell survival
Proteins are essential for various cellular functions.
How can a change in a gene affect an organism?
It can change the amino acids encoded by the gene, potentially altering the protein’s structure and function
This can have significant impacts on the cell and the entire organism.
True or False: Genetics alone determines an organism’s traits.
False
Both genetics and environmental factors influence traits.
Fill in the blank: Genetics and the ________ experienced by an organism together influence its traits.
environment
Environmental factors can significantly impact an individual’s characteristics.
What factors can influence a person’s weight during childhood?
Nutritional and health status
These factors interact with genetic predispositions.
