Bio Notes (Flashcards)

Meiosis I

Homologous chromosomes separate, consisting of Prophase I, Metaphase I, Anaphase I, Telophase I.

Meiosis II

Sister chromatids separate, similar to mitosis.

Heredity

Passing traits from parents to offspring.

Genotype

Genetic makeup of an organism, such as Aa.

Phenotype

Physical traits of an organism, such as blue eyes.

Homozygous

Having the same alleles, like AA or aa.

Heterozygous

Having different alleles, such as Aa.

Dominant

A trait that is expressed if at least one allele is present.

Recessive

A trait that is expressed only when both alleles are recessive.

Gamete

A sex cell, either sperm or egg.

Nondisjunction

The failure of chromosomes to separate properly during cell division.

Plasmid

A circular DNA molecule found in bacteria.

Mendel's F1 Plants

First filial generation resulting from a cross between parental organisms.

Monohybrid Cross

A genetic cross involving one trait, represented as Aa × Aa.

Dihybrid Cross

A genetic cross involving two traits, represented as AaBb × AaBb.

Sex-linked traits

Traits associated with genes found on the X chromosome, such as color blindness.

Incomplete dominance

A situation in which heterozygous phenotypes blend, such as red and white flowers producing pink.

Codominance

A condition where both traits are fully expressed, like in AB blood type.

Universal donor

Blood type O-, which can donate to any other blood type.

Universal recipient

Blood type AB+, which can receive from any other blood type.

Sex chromosomes

Chromosomes that determine an individual's sex: XY for male and XX for female.

Independent assortment

The process where genes independently separate from one another when reproductive cells develop.

Probability in genetics

The likelihood of a trait being expressed; often calculated using Punnett squares.

Cystic Fibrosis

A genetic disorder characterized by the buildup of thick mucus.

Sickle-cell Anemia

A genetic blood disorder leading to misshaped red blood cells.

Huntington’s Disease

A brain disorder caused by a dominant gene, leading to degeneration over time.

Down Syndrome

A genetic disorder caused by an extra chromosome 21.

Karyotype

A visual representation of an individual's chromosomes.

Pedigree

A diagram showing the genetic relationships within a family.

DNA

A molecule consisting of two strands that forms the double helix structure, with bases A-T and C-G.

RNA

A single-stranded molecule that contains bases A-U and C-G.

Nucleotide

The basic building block of nucleic acids, composed of sugar, phosphate, and a nitrogenous base.

DNA Replication

The process of copying DNA to create identical molecules.

Transcription

The process of synthesizing mRNA from a DNA template.

Translation

The process of synthesizing a protein from an mRNA template at the ribosome.

Point mutation

A mutation where a single nucleotide base is changed.

HOX genes

Genes that control the body plan during embryonic development.

Selective Breeding

The process by which humans breed plants and animals for desired traits.

Cloning

The process of creating a genetically identical copy of an organism.

Recombinant DNA

DNA that has been formed artificially by combining constituents from different organisms.

GMO (Genetically Modified Organism)

An organism whose genome has been modified in a laboratory.

Fossils

Preserved remains or evidence of ancient organisms, providing insight into evolutionary changes.

Comparative Anatomy

The study of similarities and differences in the anatomy of different species.

Embryology

The study of embryos and their development, used as evidence for common ancestry.

Natural Selection

The process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Adaptive Radiation

The evolution of many species from a common ancestor as they adapt to different environments.

Genetic Drift

Random changes in allele frequencies within a population.

Speciation

The formation of new and distinct species through evolution.

Reproductive Isolation

A situation where different species may live in the same area but properties of individuals prevent them from interbreeding.

Gradualism

The hypothesis that evolution occurs at a slow, steady rate.

Punctuated Equilibrium

The theory that evolution occurs in rapid bursts followed by long periods of stability.