Test Bank for Genetics a Conceptual Approach 7th Edition
by Benjamin A. Pierce
2025 All Chapters Covered|| Updated Edition|| 100% Verified Answers
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Genetics from Genetics: A Conceptual Approach
1. Which of the following best defines genetics?
A) The study of living organisms
B) The study of genes and heredity
C) The study of diseases and their causes
D) The study of cell structures
Correct Answer: B) The study of genes and heredity
Rationale: Genetics focuses specifically on how traits and characteristics are inherited through genes. This
foundational knowledge is crucial for understanding more complex genetic concepts. Understanding
genetics is essential for nurses, as they may deal with genetic conditions and counseling.
2. Which term describes the observable characteristics of an organism?
A) Genotype
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B) Phenotype
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D)
Allele
Chromosome
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Correct Answer: B) Phenotype
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Rationale: The phenotype refers to the physical expression of genetic traits, while genotype refers to the
genetic makeup. Nurses must be able to differentiate between these terms to provide effective education
and support to patients regarding genetic conditions.
3. What is the primary function of DNA?
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A) To provide energy for cellular processes
B) To store and transmit genetic information
C) To catalyze biochemical reactions
D) To serve as a structural component of cells
Correct Answer: B) To store and transmit genetic information
Rationale: DNA holds the instructions for the development and functioning of living organisms, which is
central to genetic studies. Understanding the role of DNA is vital for nurses, especially when discussing
genetic testing and counseling.
4. Which of the following best describes alleles?
A) Different forms of a gene
B) The same form of a gene
C) Chromosomes that determine sex
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D) Cells that contain genetic material
Correct Answer: A) Different forms of a gene
Rationale: Alleles represent variations of a particular gene, contributing to genetic diversity. Nurses must
understand alleles to help explain inheritance patterns and genetic disorders to patients.
5. If a person has two identical alleles for a trait, they are considered:
A) Homozygous
B) Heterozygous
C) Dominant
D) Recessive
Correct Answer: A) Homozygous
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Rationale: Homozygous individuals have two copies of the same allele, while heterozygous individuals
have different alleles. This distinction is essential in genetics, as it influences the expression of traits and
the risk of genetic disorders. LE
6. What is a gene?
A) A segment of DNA that codes for a protein
B) The physical location of chromosomes
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C) The complete set of DNA in an organism
D) A structure that carries nutrients in cells
Correct Answer: A) A segment of DNA that codes for a protein
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Rationale: Genes are the basic units of heredity and are crucial for producing proteins that carry out
various functions in the body. Understanding gene function is essential for nurses to assess genetic risks
and provide appropriate patient education.
7. Which genetic disorder is caused by a single gene mutation?
A) Cystic fibrosis
B) Down syndrome
C) Turner syndrome
D) Hemophilia
Correct Answer: A) Cystic fibrosis
Rationale: Cystic fibrosis is an autosomal recessive disorder resulting from mutations in the CFTR gene,
illustrating Mendelian inheritance patterns. Recognizing such disorders allows nurses to provide better
care and management strategies for affected individuals.
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8. In Mendelian inheritance, what is the expected phenotypic ratio of a monohybrid cross?
A) 1:1
B) 3:1
C) 9:3:3:1
D) 1:2:1
Correct Answer: B) 3:1
Rationale: A monohybrid cross typically results in a 3:1 ratio of dominant to recessive phenotypes. This
knowledge is important for nurses involved in genetic counseling, as it helps explain inheritance patterns
to families.
9. Which of the following represents a carrier for a recessive genetic disorder?
A) AA
B) Aa
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C) aa
D) None of the above
Correct Answer: B) Aa
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Rationale: A carrier has one dominant and one recessive allele, showing no symptoms of the disorder but
capable of passing the recessive allele to offspring. Understanding carriers is vital in genetic counseling
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and assessing family risks.
10. What is the significance of the human genome project?
A) To clone human genes
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B) To map the entire human genome
C) To identify genetic disorders only
D) To enhance agricultural crops
Correct Answer: B) To map the entire human genome
Rationale: The Human Genome Project aimed to sequence and understand all the genes of the human
species, which has vast implications for medicine and genetics. Nurses should be aware of this project as
it informs genetic testing and treatment options.
11. Which of the following is an example of a dominant trait?
A) Blue eyes
B) Blood type O
C) Hitchhiker's thumb
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