Genetics & Heredity
Genetics explores heredity and how traits are passed from parents to offspring. It covers the structure of DNA, the principles of inheritance established by Gregor Mendel, as well as modern understandings of gene expression, mutations, and the impact of environmental factors on genetic traits. The chapter emphasizes the complexity of traits' inheritance patterns and encourages inquiry-based exploration of genetic traits in families.
Enroll to start learning
You've not yet enrolled in this course. Please enroll for free to listen to audio lessons, classroom podcasts and take practice test.
Sections
Navigate through the learning materials and practice exercises.
What we have learnt
- DNA carries the genetic instructions for life and is organized into chromosomes and genes that determine traits.
- Inheritance follows specific patterns defined by dominant and recessive alleles, as well as more complex relationships such as incomplete dominance and codominance.
- Both genetic and environmental factors influence how traits are expressed, underscoring the importance of gene-environment interactions.
Key Concepts
- -- DNA
- A molecule that carries the hereditary information essential for the growth and functioning of all living organisms.
- -- Mendelian Inheritance
- Principles of heredity established by Gregor Mendel, outlining how traits are inherited through dominant and recessive alleles.
- -- Punnett Square
- A diagram used to predict the outcome of a genetic cross by displaying the possible allele combinations for offspring.
- -- GeneEnvironment Interaction
- The manner in which environmental factors influence the expression of genetic traits.
- -- Mutation
- A change in the DNA sequence that can lead to variations in traits, potentially resulting in beneficial, harmful, or neutral outcomes.
Additional Learning Materials
Supplementary resources to enhance your learning experience.