Grade 10 Biology - Selective Breeding and Genetic Modification Review

These flashcards cover key concepts related to selective breeding, genetic modification, and transport mechanisms in biology, based on the review topics for the Grade 10 assessment.

Selective Breeding

The process by which humans choose organisms with desirable characteristics to reproduce.

Artificial Selection

Another term for selective breeding, where humans intervene in the reproduction of organisms.

Natural Selection

The process of evolution that occurs without human intervention.

Genetic Engineering

The direct alteration of an organism’s DNA.

Transgenic Organism

An organism that contains genes from another species.

Recombinant DNA

DNA formed by joining genetic material from different sources.

Diffusion

The net movement of particles from a region of higher concentration to a region of lower concentration.

Passive Transport

Movement of substances across a cell membrane without the use of energy.

Osmosis

The net movement of water molecules across a partially permeable membrane.

Plasmid

A carrier used to transfer a gene in genetic modification.

Restriction Enzymes

Enzymes that cut DNA at specific sequences.

DNA Ligase

An enzyme that joins pieces of DNA together.

Turgid

Describes plant cells that gain water, become firm, and press against the cell wall.

Flaccid

Describes plant cells that lose some water and become soft.

Plasmolysed

Describes plant cells that lose a large amount of water causing the membrane to pull away from the wall.

Active Transport

The movement of substances from a region of low concentration to a region of high concentration, requiring energy.

Gene

A section of DNA that codes for a protein.

Vector

A carrier used to transfer a gene, commonly in genetic modification.

Sticky Ends

Overlapping ends of DNA that bond easily.

Blunt Ends

Straight cuts in DNA that are harder to join.

Golden Rice

An example of a genetically modified crop designed to improve nutritional value.