Variation and the genome Flashcards
Characteristics
Anything that can be used to separate one individual from another e.g. hair colour and height
Variation
Differences in characteristics between individual organisms in the same species
Inherited Variation (Nature)
Genes control the development of characteristics. We are not identical to one parent because we inherit a mix of features from both our parents.
Environmental Variation (Nurture)
Characteristics may be changed by environmental factors.
What is DNA
A polymer made of 2 strands forming a double helix. It is found in the nucleus of the cell. Chromosomes are made from long coiled up molecules of DNA.
What are Genes
A gene is a small section of DNA on a chromosome. Each gene codes for a particular sequence of amino acids to make a specific protein.
Sex Chromosomes
Male= XY
Female=XX
What is a Genome
All the DNA of an organism. It includes all the genes that carry all the genetic information to make all the proteins required by the organism.
Why is it important to learn about the Human Genome
It allows us to search for genes linked to different types of diseases
It helps us understand and treat inherited disorders
Base pairs
Pairs of bases held together by hydrogen bonds. 3 pairs give the code for an amino acid.
A-T
C-G
Nucleotide (or base)
The monomer unit of DNA which are bonded together to form a strand of DNA
Why is DNA known as a polymer
Because it is a chain of nucleotides/bases joined together
