Genetic Variation and Inheritance Flashcard

Front

What is co-dominance in genetics?

Back

Co-dominance is a genetic scenario where both alleles in a heterozygote are fully expressed, resulting in a phenotype that shows both traits equally.

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How does the environment influence genetic traits?

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The environment can influence genetic traits by altering gene expression, which can affect how traits are displayed without changing the underlying DNA sequence.

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What are polygenic traits?

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Polygenic traits are traits that are controlled by multiple genes, leading to a wide range of phenotypes.

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What is the role of mutations in evolution?

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Mutations provide new genetic variations that can lead to evolutionary changes and adaptations in populations.

Front

How can environmental factors lead to genetic mutations?

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Environmental factors can lead to genetic mutations by altering the sequence of nucleotides in DNA, which can result in changes to the organism.

Front

Define genetic variation.

Back

Genetic variation refers to the differences in DNA sequences among individuals within a population, which contributes to diversity in traits.

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What is a phenotype?

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A phenotype is the observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an organism, determined by both genetic makeup and environmental influences.

Front

Explain the concept of dominant and recessive alleles.

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Dominant alleles are expressed in the phenotype even when only one copy is present, while recessive alleles are only expressed when two copies are present.

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What is the significance of genetic diversity?

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Genetic diversity is important for the survival of species as it increases the chances of adaptation to changing environments.

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What is a genotype?

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A genotype is the genetic constitution of an individual, representing the alleles inherited from both parents.