definitions

definition on biological terms

Amino Acid

Organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins.

Allele

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

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)

Molecule that carries genetic information.

Chromosome

Structure made of DNA and proteins that contains genes.

Cell

Basic unit of life that makes up all living organisms.

Proteins

Large molecules made up of amino acids, essential for various biological functions.

Nucleus

Membrane-bound organelle in eukaryotic cells that contains DNA.

Gene

Segment of DNA that codes for a specific protein or trait.

Variation

Differences in traits among individuals in a population.

Dominant

An allele that expresses its trait even in the presence of a recessive allele.

Recessive

An allele that expresses its trait only when two copies are present.

Homozygous

An organism with two identical alleles for a specific gene (e.g., AA or aa).

Heterozygous

An organism with two different alleles for a specific gene (e.g., Aa).

Polymers

Large molecules composed of repeating structural units (monomers), often found in biological systems (e.g., proteins, nucleic acids).

Genotype

The genetic constitution of an organism, representing the alleles inherited from parents.

Phenotype

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

Monomer

A small, single molecule that can join together with other monomers to form a polymer.

Polymer

A large molecule made up of repeating structural units (monomers) connected by covalent bonds.

Polymerization

The chemical process in which monomers combine to form a polymer.

Genetic Variant

A variation in the DNA sequence among individuals, which can lead to differences in traits or characteristics.

DNA Structure

Unique structure of two intertwined strands forming a double helix.

DNA Bases

Adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G) that pair specifically (A-T, C-G).