Define each of the following terms:

gene

Key Concepts

Gene

A gene is a fundamental unit of heredity in living organisms, composed of DNA. It serves as a blueprint for the synthesis of proteins, which perform various functions in the body. Genes are located on chromosomes and can influence traits such as eye color, height, and susceptibility to diseases. Each gene can exist in different forms, known as alleles, which contribute to genetic diversity.

DNA Structure

DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a double-helix molecule that carries genetic information. It consists of two strands made up of nucleotides, each containing a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The sequence of these bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine) encodes the instructions for building proteins. Understanding DNA structure is crucial for grasping how genes function and are inherited.

Alleles

Alleles are different versions of a gene that arise through mutations and can result in variations in traits. For example, a gene for flower color may have a red allele and a white allele. An individual inherits two alleles for each gene, one from each parent, which can be homozygous (same alleles) or heterozygous (different alleles). The combination of alleles determines the expression of traits in an organism.