Biology 20 flashcards ~10 min

Genetics and DNA Fundamentals

About this deck

Genetics explains how traits are inherited and how genetic information is stored, copied, and expressed in living organisms. DNA serves as the blueprint for life, carrying the instructions needed for growth, development, and reproduction. Understanding genetics is essential for studying evolution, biotechnology, medicine, and molecular biology. This flashcard deck introduces the fundamental concepts of genetics using clear, easy-to-review questions and answers.

The deck covers DNA structure, genes, chromosomes, nucleotides, complementary base pairing, DNA replication, transcription, translation, and protein synthesis. It also introduces the principles of Mendelian genetics, including dominant and recessive alleles, genotype, phenotype, homozygous and heterozygous traits, and the basic patterns of inheritance. Together, these topics provide a solid understanding of how genetic information is transmitted from one generation to the next.

Designed for students and lifelong learners, these flashcards simplify complex biological concepts into manageable study questions that are ideal for classroom learning, exam preparation, and quick revision. Regular practice with this deck can improve memory, reinforce important terminology, and build a strong foundation for more advanced genetics topics.

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DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is the hereditary molecule that stores genetic information in living organisms.

A gene is a segment of DNA that contains the instructions for producing a functional product, usually a protein.

A chromosome is a long DNA molecule associated with proteins that carries many genes.

Adenine (A), Thymine (T), Cytosine (C), and Guanine (G).

Adenine pairs with Thymine, and Cytosine pairs with Guanine.

A double helix.

DNA replication is the process by which DNA makes an identical copy of itself before cell division.

DNA helicase.

DNA polymerase synthesizes new DNA strands by adding complementary nucleotides.

Transcription is the process of copying genetic information from DNA into messenger RNA (mRNA).

Translation is the process in which ribosomes use mRNA to build proteins.

Messenger RNA carries genetic instructions from DNA to ribosomes for protein synthesis.

A nucleotide is the basic building block of DNA, consisting of a sugar, phosphate group, and nitrogenous base.

Gregor Mendel.

An allele is an alternative form of the same gene.

Genotype is an organism's genetic makeup, while phenotype is its observable characteristics.

A dominant allele is expressed whenever it is present, even if only one copy is inherited.

A recessive allele is expressed only when two copies are present.

A homozygous genotype contains two identical alleles for a gene.

A heterozygous genotype contains two different alleles for a gene.