Genetics Vocabulary

Front

What is homozygous?

Back

Having two identical alleles for a trait (e.g., EE or ee).

Front

What is phenotype?

Back

The observable characteristics or traits of an organism, such as red hair or tall height.

Front

What is a gene?

Back

The basic unit of heredity that consists of a segment of DNA on a chromosome.

Front

What does homozygous mean in genetics?

Back

Having two of the same genes for a trait, also known as purebred.

Front

What is a dominant trait?

Back

A trait that is expressed when at least one dominant allele is present (e.g., RR or Rr).

Front

What is a recessive trait?

Back

A trait that is only expressed when two recessive alleles are present (e.g., rr).

Front

What is a genotype?

Back

The genetic makeup of an organism, represented by the alleles (e.g., RR, Rr, or rr).

Front

What is the difference between homozygous and heterozygous?

Back

Homozygous has identical alleles (e.g., AA or aa), while heterozygous has different alleles (e.g., Aa).

Front

What is a chromosome?

Back

A structure made of DNA that carries genetic information.

Front

What is the role of DNA in genetics?

Back

DNA contains the instructions for building and maintaining an organism's cells and passing traits to offspring.