Lecture 1: Introduction to basic concepts of genetics

Lecture 1 and chapter 1 in the text both present broad overviews of genetics that are not well suited for use as examination material. The following review questions are designed primarily to be certain that you have an understanding of the general background material that is expected for this course. Some of these questions (or similar questions) may appear on the examination.

1. Distinguish between haploid and diploid in a manner that makes it clear that you know what each is and how the two differ.

2. Define the term "gene". Include in your answer a brief description of the function of a gene.

3. Distinguish between transcription and translation in a manner that makes it clear that you know what each is and how the two differ.

4. What is a gamete and why is it considered important in the study of genetics?

5. What is a zygote and why is it considered important in the study of genetics?

6. Distinguish between gene and genome in a manner that makes it clear that you know what each is and how the two differ.

7. In molecular terms, how would you define mutation?

8. How is the information that specifies the amino acid sequence of a protein passed from one generation to the next?

9. Distinguish between genotype and phenotype in a manner that makes it clear you know what each is and how the two differ.

10. What genetic mechanisms make it possible for individuals with different genotypes to exhibit the same phenotype.

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