Genetics Vocabulary #1

Front

What is a phenotype?

Back

The observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an organism, as determined by both genetic makeup and environmental influences.

Front

What is a genotype?

Back

The genetic constitution of an individual, specifically the alleles present for a particular gene.

Front

What type of allele expresses itself only in a homozygous pair?

Back

Recessive allele.

Front

What type of allele always expresses itself if present?

Back

Dominant allele.

Front

What are traits?

Back

Characteristics or features of an organism, such as height, fur color, or seed shape.

Front

What is a Punnett square?

Back

A diagram used to predict the genotype and phenotype combinations in genetic crosses.

Front

What is the difference between dominant and recessive alleles?

Back

Dominant alleles express their traits even when only one copy is present, while recessive alleles require two copies to express their traits.

Front

What does homozygous mean?

Back

Having two identical alleles for a particular gene.

Front

What does heterozygous mean?

Back

Having two different alleles for a particular gene.

Front

What is the role of alleles in genetics?

Back

Alleles are different versions of a gene that determine specific traits.