2.26 Science Genetics vocab

Heredity

The passing of genetic traits from parent to offspring.

Recessive Trait

A trait that is apparent only when two recessive alleles for the same characteristic are inherited.

Dominant Trait

The trait observed in the first generation when parents that have different traits are bred.

Gene

One set of instructions for an inherited trait.

Allele

One of the alternative forms of a gene that governs a characteristic, such as hair color.

Genotype

The entire genetic makeup of an organism; also the combination of genes for one or more specific traits.

Phenotype

An organism’s appearance or other detectable characteristic.

Probability

The likelihood that a possible future event will occur in any given instance of the event.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid, a molecule that is present in all living cells and that contains the information that determines the traits that a living thing inherits and needs to live.

Ribosome

A cell organelle composed of RNA and protein; the site of protein synthesis.