DNA and Mutations Review

Front

What is a mutation?

Back

A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence that can lead to changes in traits. Mutations can be harmful, beneficial, or neutral.

Front

What are nucleotides?

Back

Nucleotides are the building blocks of DNA and RNA, consisting of a nitrogen base, a sugar, and a phosphate group.

Front

What three components make up a nucleotide?

Back

A nucleotide is made up of a phosphate group, a sugar (deoxyribose in DNA), and a nitrogen base.

Front

What is a base pair?

Back

A base pair consists of two nitrogenous bases that pair together in DNA, such as adenine with thymine or cytosine with guanine.

Front

How many chromosomes do humans have?

Back

Humans typically have 46 chromosomes in each cell, arranged in 23 pairs.

Front

What is the role of DNA?

Back

DNA carries genetic information that determines the traits of an organism and is responsible for inheritance.

Front

What is the difference between a gene and a chromosome?

Back

A gene is a segment of DNA that codes for a specific protein or trait, while a chromosome is a structure that contains many genes.

Front

What is the significance of mutations in evolution?

Back

Mutations can introduce new traits in a population, which can lead to evolution through natural selection.

Front

What are homologous chromosomes?

Back

Homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes that have the same structure and carry genes for the same traits, one inherited from each parent.

Front

What is the function of the sugar in a nucleotide?

Back

The sugar in a nucleotide provides structural support and connects the phosphate group and nitrogen base.