Genetic Variation and Change QUESTIONS WITH COMPLETE SOLUTIONS

A sequence of DNA that occupies a specific location on a chromosome and determines a particular characteristic in an organism correct answer: Gene Any of two or more variants of a gene that have the same relative position on homologous chromosomes and are responsible for alternative characteristics correct answer: Allele (normal) The percentage of a population of a species that carries a particular allele on a given chromosome correct answer: Allele frequency A genetically determined characteristic or condition correct answer: Trait The position that a given gene occupies on a chromosome correct answer: Locus Capable of being passed on from one generation to the next correct answer: Heritable A permanent change in the base sequence of DNA correct answer: Mutation An agent, such as a chemical, ultraviolet light, or a radioactive element, that can induce or increase the frequency of mutation in an organism correct answer: Mutagen The process of cell division in sexually reproducing organisms that reduces the number of chromosomes in reproducing cells from diploid to haploid correct answer: Meiosis A process occurring during meiosis where in two chromosomes pair up and exchange segments of their genetic correct answer: Crossing over The point at which paired chromosomes contact during crossing over correct answer: Chiasma The process of random segregation and assortment of chromosomes during meiosis resulting in the production of genetically unique gametes correct answer: Independent assortment The separation of paired alleles or homologous chromosomes, especially during meiosis, so that the members of each pair appear in different gametes correct answer: Segregation A reproductive cell having the haploid number of chromosomes, especially a mature sperm or egg correct answer: Gamete Any cell of the body that is not a sexually reproductive cell (eg. a gamete) correct answer: Somatic cell Variation in the allele frequency or genome between members of species, or between groups of species correct answer: Genetic var