Chapter 5 Vocabulary

An alternate form that a gene may have for a single trait. Allele

The outward appearance of a trait Phenotype

Offspring that was given different genetic information for a trait from each parent. HYBRID

A trait that covers or dominates another form of that trait. DOMINANT

Incomplete Dominance Production of a phenotype that is an intermediate between two homozygous parents.

Genetic Engineering Changing the arrangement of a gene’s DNA to improve crop production, produce large volumes of medicine, and change how cells perform their normal functions.

Genetics The study of how traits are inherited through the actions of alleles.

GENOTYPE The actual genetic make-up of an organism.

POLYGENIC INHERITANCE A group of gene pairs act together to determine a trait (human eye color, skin color, height)

HEREDITY The passing of traits from parent to offspring.

Punnett Square A tool used to predict the probability of certain outcomes in the offspring; shows the different ways alleles may combine.

HETEROZYGOUS Having two different alleles for a trait.

HOMOZYGOUS Having two of the same alleles for a trait.

RECESSIVE A trait that is covered or dominated by another form of that trait; seems to disappear.

SEX-LINKED GENE An allele inherited on a sex chromosome (x or y); can cause genetic disorders such as color blindness and hemophilia.

GENE Section of DNA on a chromosome that contains instructions for making specific proteins.

DEOXYRIBONUCLEIC ACID Genetic information of all organisms.

MEIOSIS Cell division that produces four haploid sex cells