Unit 8.5 Quiz 1

A characteristic such as eye color or hair color:

• DNA

• allele

• trait

• gene

Answer explanation

A characteristic such as eye color or hair color is referred to as a trait. Traits are observable characteristics influenced by genes and alleles, but the term 'trait' specifically describes the visible features.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-4

Differences in genes passed on from parent to offspring:

• trait

• DNA

• gene

• genetic variation

Answer explanation

Genetic variation refers to the differences in genes passed from parents to offspring, leading to diversity in traits. This variation is crucial for evolution and adaptation, making it the correct choice.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS3-2

Different versions of a gene (blue or brown eyes; curly or straight hair):

• allele

• trait

• feature

• gene

Answer explanation

Different versions of a gene are called alleles. For example, blue and brown eyes represent different alleles of the eye color gene. Traits are the observable characteristics, while genes are the segments of DNA that code for these traits.

The study of how traits are inherited:

• genotype

• phenotype

• natural selection

• genetics

Answer explanation

The study of how traits are inherited is known as genetics. It focuses on the mechanisms of heredity and variation in organisms, distinguishing it from terms like genotype and phenotype, which refer to specific aspects of traits.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS3-1

NGSS.HS-LS3-2

Skeletal muscles work with bones to give your body__________. 

• height

• strength

• variation

• calcium

Answer explanation

Skeletal muscles contract to pull on bones, enabling movement and providing strength to the body. This collaboration is essential for physical activities, making 'strength' the correct answer.

Muscles are made of __________.

• specific chromosomes

• identical alleles

• specialized cells

• different traits

Answer explanation

Muscles are composed of specialized cells called muscle fibers, which are designed for contraction and movement. The other options do not accurately describe the structure of muscles.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-1

NGSS.MS-LS1-2

NGSS.MS-LS1-3

Extra-big muscles have ________ compared to typical muscles. Check all that apply.

• more mass

• fewer cells

• smaller cells

• less mass

Answer explanation

Extra-big muscles have more mass compared to typical muscles because they contain a greater volume of muscle fibers, leading to increased overall size and strength.

What is NOT an example of a feature in tulips?

• dried petals

• petal color

• petal shape

• petal texture

Answer explanation

Dried petals are not a feature of tulips; they refer to a state of the flower after it has wilted. In contrast, petal color, shape, and texture are key characteristics that define tulip varieties.

Tags

NGSS.4-LS1-1