AP Biology Mendelian Genetics

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What is the principle of independent assortment in genetics?

Back

Genes assort independently of one another when they are located on different chromosomes.

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What does the term 'phenotype' refer to?

Back

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

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What does the term 'genotype' refer to?

Back

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

Front

What is a dominant allele?

Back

An allele that expresses its phenotype even in the presence of a recessive allele.

Front

What is a recessive allele?

Back

An allele that only expresses its phenotype when two copies are present (homozygous condition).

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Who is known as the father of genetics?

Back

Gregor Mendel, who established the basic principles of heredity through his work with pea plants.

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What is heredity?

Back

The passing on of traits from parents to offspring through genetic information.

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What is the difference between homozygous and heterozygous genotypes?

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Homozygous genotypes have two identical alleles for a trait, while heterozygous genotypes have two different alleles.

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What is a Punnett square used for?

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A tool used to predict the genotypes and phenotypes of offspring from a genetic cross.

Front

What is the significance of Mendel's law of segregation?

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It states that during the formation of gametes, the two alleles for a trait separate, so each gamete carries only one allele.