Lecture 8 Vocabulary (BIOL211)

This set of flashcards focuses on key vocabulary terms related to genetics and evolution, providing definitions crucial for understanding the underlying concepts.

Evolution

Change in allele frequencies in populations over time.

Gene Pool

The sum of all copies of all alleles at all loci in a population.

Allele Frequency

The proportion of a given allele in a population.

Genotype Frequency

The proportion of a specific genotype in a population.

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium

A model describing a non-evolving population where allele frequencies remain constant.

Mutation

A change in an organism's nucleotide sequence that can lead to genetic variation.

Point Mutation

A substitution of a single base in a gene that may or may not affect the protein's amino acids.

Frame-shift Mutation

A mutation caused by insertions or deletions that changes the reading frame of a gene.

Qualitative Variation

Phenotypic variation described as distinct alternatives, often controlled by alleles at a single locus.

Quantitative Variation

Phenotypic variation that varies along a continuum, typically influenced by multiple alleles at different loci.

Polygenic Traits

Traits that are controlled by more than one gene and often show continuous variation.

Hardy-Weinberg Equation

p² + 2pq + q² = 1, used to calculate expected genotype frequencies under Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.

Mendelian Cross

A genetic cross that follows the inheritance patterns established by Gregor Mendel.

Independent Assortment

The principle that alleles for different traits segregate independently of one another during gamete formation.

Recessive Homozygote

An individual that has two copies of a recessive allele (rr).

Heterozygote

An individual that has one dominant and one recessive allele (Rr).

Dihybrid Cross

A genetic cross that examines the inheritance of two different traits.

Random Fertilization

The random combination of alleles from two parents during the formation of a zygote.

Genetic Drift

Random changes in allele frequencies in a population, often having a more significant effect in small populations.

Natural Selection

The process where individuals with favorable traits reproduce more successfully than others.

Gene Flow

The movement of alleles into or out of a population due to migration of individuals.