In-Depth Notes on Heredity and DNA Concepts

Heredity

The process by which traits are passed down from parents to offspring.

Trait

A distinguishing characteristic or quality of an organism, often determined by genetics.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid, the molecule that carries genetic information and codes for traits.

Chromosome

A structure composed of DNA and protein that contains genes and is found in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells.

Gene

A segment of DNA that contains the instructions for making a specific protein, influencing a particular trait.

Nucleotide

The building block of DNA, consisting of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

Base Pairing

The specific pairing of nitrogenous bases in DNA: adenine with thymine, and cytosine with guanine.

Asexual Reproduction

A form of reproduction where offspring are produced from a single parent without the involvement of gametes.

Genetic Code

The sequence of nucleotides in DNA that determines the information carried by a gene.

Gene Regulation

The process of turning genes on or off to control the expression of certain traits.

Dominant Trait

A trait that is expressed when at least one dominant allele is present.

Recessive Trait

A trait that is only expressed when two recessive alleles are present.

Allele

Different forms of a gene that can exist at a specific locus on a chromosome.

Punnett Square

A diagram used to predict the genetic makeup of offspring based on the genetic makeup of the parents.