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Year 10 Genetics
Year 10 Science - Genetics
Term | Definition |
---|---|
gene | A section of DNA that codes for a particular trait / feature (e.g. eye colour). |
alleles | Different forms of the same gene. They can be dominant or recessive. |
asexual reproduction | The creation of a new individual which has DNA from just one parent, to which it is identical. |
cell | The basic unit of a living thing. It includes a nucleus, which contains the DNA. |
chromosome | A structure made of DNA and found in the nucleus of cells. |
clone | An organism produced by asexual reproduction (or cloning) of one parent. It is genetically identical to its parent. |
continuous variation | When a broad range of measurements are possible for a trait (e.g. height). |
discontinuous variation | When a trait falls into a particular category (e.g. blood group). |
DNA | The molecule which carries the genetic information of an organism. |
dominant allele | The form of a gene which is always shown, even if only one is present. Represented with a capital letter (e.g. ‘H’). |
evolution | A gradual process of change in the traits of a species over many generations. |
fertilisation | When a male gamete (sperm) fuses with a female gamete (egg / ovum) |
mutation | A change in the DNA of an organism. This can make a new allele. |
natural selection | The process in which individuals which have an advantage in their environment tend to survive and reproduce. |
nucleus | The part of a cell which contains the DNA (in the form of chromosomes). |
pure-bred | When an organism has two matching alleles for a gene (e.g. ‘HH’ or ‘hh’). |
recessive allele | The form of the gene which is only shown when two are present. Represented with a lower-case letter (e.g. ‘h’). |
reproduction | The creation of a new individual from previously existing individuals. |
sexual reproduction | The creation of a new individual which has DNA from two parents. |
trait | A feature controlled by genes (e.g. eye colour). |
variation | Differences between the individuals of a species. |
offspring | The next generation of young, resulting from reproduction. |
mutagen | Any factor which increases the chance of a mutation occurring. |