Biology Chapter 8 — Basic Genetics

Vocabulary flashcards covering core genetic terms, chromosome structures, sex determination, and cellular division concepts from Biology Chapter 8.

Chromatin

The genetic material of eukaryotic cells, made of DNA and associated proteins.

Chromosome

A structure of DNA and proteins that carries genetic information.

Gene

A segment of DNA that codes for a specific protein and can affect a trait.

Chromatids

Identical copies of a chromosome connected by a centromere.

Centromere

A structure that joins sister chromatids and helps them separate during cell division.

Autosomes

Chromosomes that do not determine an organism's gender.

Sex chromosomes

Chromosomes that determine an organism's biological sex.

XX

Chromosomes that usually represent female sex chromosomes in humans.

XY

Chromosomes that usually represent male sex chromosomes in humans.

Karyotype

A picture of chromosomes that have been stained, separated, and paired.

Homologous chromosome

One chromosome in a pair that carries the same genes in the same order as its partner.

Diploid ($2n$)

Having homologous pairs of chromosomes.

Haploid ($1n$)

Having only one set of chromosomes.

Cell cycle

The process of cell growth that leads to cell division.