DNA, Chromosome, and Genes

Our traits are determined by our genes and these traits are inherited. Where do our genes come from?

• our father

• our mother

• from both parents equally

• part from our mother but mostly from our father

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS3-2

The nucleus contains the cells genetic material in the form of DNA. DNA is organized into our chromosomes, which are made up of thousands of ________ that determine our traits

• RNA

• cells

• gametes

• genes

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-4

Information about traits is stored in the cell nucleus in a molecule called ______

• DNA

• ATP

• cytoplasm

• the nucleus

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS3-1

Which of the following is the most accurate definition of heredity?

• The storage of information in the nucleus of every cell in the body

• The passage of genetic instructions from one generation to another

• The relationship of one organism to another by evolutionary history

• The adaptation of an organism for better survival in a new habitat

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS3-2

What structure in the cell contains the hereditary information?

• Mitochondria

• Nucleus

• Ribosome

• Golgi apparatus

Answer explanation

The nucleus is the cell structure that contains the hereditary information, specifically DNA, which carries the genetic instructions for the development and functioning of living organisms.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS3-1

Which of the following best describes a chromosome?

• A protein that speeds up chemical reactions

• A structure made of DNA and proteins

• A lipid that stores energy

• A carbohydrate that provides energy

Answer explanation

A chromosome is best described as a structure made of DNA and proteins. It carries genetic information and is essential for cell division, unlike proteins, lipids, or carbohydrates which serve different functions.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS3-1

What is the role of DNA in cells?

• To provide energy

• To store genetic information

• To transport nutrients

• To protect the cell

Answer explanation

DNA's primary role in cells is to store genetic information, which is essential for the development, functioning, and reproduction of all living organisms. It serves as the blueprint for building proteins and regulating cellular activities.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-2

NGSS.MS-LS3-1

How is hereditary information passed from parents to offspring?

• Through environmental factors

• Through genes

• Through learned behaviors

• Through diet

Answer explanation

Hereditary information is passed from parents to offspring through genes, which are segments of DNA that carry genetic instructions. Environmental factors, learned behaviors, and diet do not directly transmit hereditary traits.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS3-2

Which of the following is a function of genes?

• To control the cell's energy production

• To determine the traits of an organism

• To digest food

• To transport oxygen

Answer explanation

Genes are responsible for determining the traits of an organism by encoding the information needed for the development and functioning of that organism. The other options relate to processes influenced by genes but are not direct functions of genes.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS3-1

What is the relationship between DNA and chromosomes?

• DNA is a type of chromosome

• Chromosomes are made of DNA

• DNA and chromosomes are unrelated

• Chromosomes create DNA

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 'Chromosomes are made of DNA' because chromosomes are structures within cells that contain DNA. DNA is the genetic material, and it is organized into chromosomes during cell division.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS3-1