UNDERSTANDING INHERITANCE

Chromozone

A threadlike structure within cells that contains DNA and carries genetic information.

Gene

A section on a chromosome that has genetic information for one trait.

Phenotype

The observable physical characteristics or traits of an organism, determined by its genotype and environmental influences.

Alleles

Different forms of a gene that determine specific traits. Alleles can be dominant or recessive.

Genotype

Two alleles that control the phenotype of a trait.

Homozygous

When the two alleles of a gene are the same, its genotype is? Hint: RR rr

Heterozygous

When the two alleles of a gene are different, its genotype is Rr

Punnet Square

A model used to predict the possible genotypes and phenotypes of offspring.

pedigree

A diagram that shows the occurrence and appearance of phenotypes of a particular gene or organism and its ancestors.

Incomplete Inheritance

A type of genetic inheritance where neither allele is completely dominant or recessive, resulting in a blended phenotype in the offspring.

codominance

A form of inheritance where both alleles in a heterozygote are fully expressed, resulting in offspring with a phenotype that displays characteristics of both parents.

polygenic inheritance

occurs when multiple genes determine the phenotype of a trait