Genetics and Cell Biology Vocabulary

A set of question and answer flashcards covering cell division, DNA structure, and key genetics terminology.

Heterozygous

Different; often used when referring to alleles such as Ee.

What is a homologous pair of chromosomes?

A pair of chromosomes that contain the same genes, though they may not always be the same alleles.

What does the term homozygous mean in genetics?

The same; often used when referring to alleles such as EE or ee.

What role do hydrogen bonds play in DNA structure?

They are easily broken bonds formed between hydrogen atoms that occur between DNA strands in the double helix.

What is meiosis?

Cell division that produces four non-identical daughter cells and is used for the production of gametes.

What is mitosis?

Cell division that produces two genetically identical daughter cells and is used for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction.

What is a mutagen?

Something that increases the rate at which mutations occur, such as UV radiation.

What is a mutation?

A random change in the DNA of a cell.

What is a nitrogenous base in DNA?

The nitrogen-containing part of a nucleotide in DNA. There are four bases in DNA: A, T, G, and C.

What components make up a nucleotide?

A phosphate group, a sugar, and a nitrogenous base, which join together to make a molecule of DNA.

What is a pedigree?

A genetic family history.

What is a phenotype?

The physical characteristics of an organism (what it looks like).

What is a protein?

A molecule made of amino acids that has many functions in cells, including working as enzymes.

What is a Punnett square used for?

It is a diagram used to work out the offspring of a particular genetic cross.

What is a recessive allele?

An allele of a gene whose effects are not seen in the characteristics of an organism when a dominant allele is present.

What is DNA replication?

The process of making another copy of a DNA molecule.

What is sexual reproduction?

Reproduction that produces genetic variation and requires meiosis to produce gametes and fertilisation.

What is thymine?

One of the four bases found in DNA molecules, represented by T.

What is genetic variation?

Differences in the genes of an organism produced during meiosis, random fertilisation, or by environmental factors.