Biology Exam Review

These flashcards cover key concepts from biology, focusing on reproduction, genetics, DNA structure and function, and principles from the Human Genome Project to help you prepare for your exam.

What is the main difference between sexual and asexual reproduction?

Sexual reproduction involves the joining of male and female gametes, while asexual reproduction involves one parent producing identical offspring without gametes.

What is meiosis and what does it produce?

Meiosis is the process that produces haploid gametes (sperm and egg cells) from a diploid cell, resulting in four genetically different cells.

What does DNA stand for and what is its function?

DNA stands for deoxyribonucleic acid and it contains the genetic instructions for the development and functioning of living organisms.

What is a gene?

A gene is a short section of DNA that codes for a specific protein and contributes to a characteristic.

In genetics, what is the difference between genotype and phenotype?

Genotype refers to the genetic makeup or alleles of an individual, while phenotype refers to the observable characteristics that result from the genotype.

What is codominance in terms of alleles?

Codominance occurs when two dominant alleles are expressed together in the phenotype of an individual.

Describe Mendelian Genetics in simple terms.

Mendelian Genetics is the study of how traits are inherited through 'hereditary units' passed from parents to offspring, with some traits being dominant and others recessive.

What is the significance of the Human Genome Project?

The Human Genome Project mapped the entire human genome, improving the understanding of genes linked to diseases and aiding in the treatment of inherited disorders.

What is a monohybrid cross?

A monohybrid cross is a genetic cross that examines the inheritance of a single trait or gene, often illustrated using a Punnett square.

How does environmental variation differ from genetic variation?

Environmental variation is caused by an organism's environment and is generally not heritable, while genetic variation arises from genetic differences and can be inherited.

What happens during DNA extraction from fruit?

During DNA extraction, fruit is disrupted and mixed with a solution that breaks down proteins and allows DNA to precipitate out of solution, making it visible.

What is the purpose of genetic variants?

Genetic variants are changes in the DNA sequence that can affect protein structure and function, thereby impacting an individual's traits.

What do you understand by sex-linked inheritance?

Sex-linked inheritance involves genes that are located on sex chromosomes (X or Y); many conditions are more common in one sex due to the presence of two X chromosomes in females.

What characterizes multiple-gene inheritance?

Multiple-gene inheritance refers to phenotypic characteristics that result from the interaction of multiple genes, rather than a single gene.