Biology Vocab

Reproduction 

Production of an individual or individuals from previously existing individuals. 

Variation 

A difference of qualities between individuals. 

Asexual reproduction 

A type of reproduction that requires one female parent and produces identical offsprings. 

Sexual reproduction 

A type of reproduction that requires one female and one male parent and produces a variation in offsprings.  

Gamete 

Reproductive cells of a living thing. For females, these are ova or egg cells. For males, these are called sperm. 

Organism 

An individual, animal, plant, or a single-celled life form. All living entities made of cells. 

Cell 

The smallest and most basic unit of life that is used for all life's processes. 

DNA 

Carrier of genetic information and is the main constituent of chromosomes. 

Gene 

A section of DNA that contains instructions for a specific feature. 

Chromosome 

 Structures within the nucleus made of DNA and contain genetic information. 

Nucleotide 

A repeating unit of DNA, made up of sugar, phosphate, and a base. 

Allele 

Different forms of a gene, inherited from each parent. 

Karyotype 

A photograph that states the number and visual appearance of a chromosome in the nuclei of a cell found within an organism. 

Punnett squares 

A tool used to predict what may happen when chromosomes and alleles combine during sexual reproduction. 

Dominant allele 

Gene on a chromosome that masks and overrides the recessive allele. A dominant allele will result in the associated phenotype being expressed. 

Recessive allele 

Gene on a chromosome that will be masked by the dominant one. This type of allele when present on its own will not affect the individual. There needs to be two types of this allele present for it to have effect.  

Purebred organism 

Kind of breeding in which the parents with a particular phenotype produce an offspring with the same phenotype. 

Pedigree chart

In diagram form, shows the inheritance of a trait or a health condition passed through generations of a family.