Term | Definition |
DNA | Chemical in living things that contains coded instructions that store and pass on genetic information |
Double Helix | The structure of DNA because it looks like a twisted ladder or spiral staircase |
chromosomes | strands of tightly wound DNA |
Genes | sections of a chromosome that carry the code for a particular trait |
Mendelian genetics | explains how traits are passed on through generations |
allele | form of a gene for a particular trait |
dominant allele | form of the trait that masks or hides the other form |
recessive allele | form of a trait that is masked or covered up when the dominant form of the trait is present |
genotype | the genetic makeup of an organism |
phenotype | the physical trait that shows up as a result of the genotype |
punnett square | a tool used to predict genotype and phenotype of offspring |
genetic engineering | manipulation of the genetic code for medicine, agriculture etc. |
inherited | traits expressed in genes |
acquired | skills acquired through practice and injuries occurring from the environment |
sugars, nitrogenous bases, and phosphates | traits expressed in genes |
Gregor Mendel | often considered the "father of genetics" for his study of the inheritance of traits in pea plants |
Rosalind Franklin | Discovered that DNA is a strand of molecules in spiral form |
Watson and Crick | came up with the Double helix model of DNA |
genetics | the scientific study of heredity |
heredity | the passing of traits from parents to offspring |