Information in the Cell

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and definitions related to the chapter on Information in the Cell, focusing on DNA, genes, and the processes of transcription, translation, and cell division.

DNA

A kind of nucleic acid that stores information needed to make all of the complex cellular machinery.

Nucleic Acid

Molecules that carry genetic information and instructions for cell functioning.

Gene

A section of a DNA molecule that codes for a unique protein.

Transcription

The process that cells use to make working copies of DNA (to make RNA).

mRNA (Messenger RNA)

A new but slightly different kind of nucleic acid built during transcription that carries information out of the nucleus.

Translation

The process of converting the DNA code into a protein.

Amino Acids

Molecules used to build proteins.

Codon

Sets of three nucleotides in mRNA that code for one of about twenty different amino acids.

Proteins

Decoded messages from the DNA code.

Chromosomes

Coiled structures of DNA that become visible during cell division.

Mitosis

A process that ensures each new daughter cell has the same number and kinds of genes as the original parent cell.

Cytokinesis

The process of dividing the cytoplasm to form two new cells after mitosis.

Haploid

Cells that contain a single set of chromosomes (n).

Diploid

Cells that contain two complete sets of chromosomes (2n).

Gametes

Sperm and egg cells involved in sexual reproduction.

Allele

A slightly different version of a gene coding for the same trait.

Fertilization

The joining of gametes to form a diploid cell.

Zygote

The diploid cell that results from fertilization.

Irreducible Complexity

The concept that if one part of a system is removed, the entire system will not function.