Biology Chapter on Chromosomes and DNA

Questions and Answers

What are autosomes?

The code of life in an organism.

Any chromosome that is not a sex chromosome. (correct)

Chromosomes that determine the sex of an organism.

Structures consisting of DNA tightly coiled around proteins.

What is base pairing in DNA?

The principle that bonds in DNA can form only between adenine and thymine and between guanine and cytosine.

What is a chromosome?

A structure in the nucleus of a cell that consists of one long molecule of DNA that is condensed and tightly coiled around associated proteins.

Define Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA).

DNA makes up an organism's chromosomes and contains the instructions for building each protein that an organism needs. Signup and view all the answers

What are genes?

A specific location on a chromosome that codes for a particular protein or RNA molecule. Signup and view all the answers

What is a nucleotide?

A subunit of which nucleic acids are composed; made up of a 5-carbon sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. Signup and view all the answers

Define Ribonucleic Acid (RNA).

A single-stranded nucleic acid that contains the sugar ribose. Signup and view all the answers

What are sex chromosomes?

The one pair of chromosomes that determines the gender (male, female) of an organism. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Genetic Concepts

Autosomes: Chromosomes that are not involved in determining the sex of an organism; humans have 22 pairs of autosomes.
Base Pairing: Fundamental principle of DNA structure; adenine pairs with thymine, and guanine pairs with cytosine, ensuring accurate DNA replication.
Chromosome: Contains a long DNA molecule coiled around proteins; carries numerous genes responsible for various biological functions.
Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA): The genetic blueprint of organisms; encodes instructions for synthesizing proteins essential for life.
Genes: Segments of DNA located on chromosomes that specify traits and functions; they play a critical role in heredity.
Nucleotide: Basic building block of nucleic acids, composed of a 5-carbon sugar, phosphate group, and nitrogenous base, serving as the structural unit of DNA and RNA.
Ribonucleic Acid (RNA): A single-stranded nucleic acid that utilizes ribose sugar; plays key roles in protein synthesis and gene expression.
Sex Chromosomes: The specific pair of chromosomes (XX in females, XY in males) that determine an organism's sex; crucial for sexual differentiation.

Description

Test your knowledge on autosomes, base pairing, and the fundamental structures of DNA and chromosomes. This quiz covers key concepts that are essential for understanding genetics and cellular biology. Perfect for students looking to reinforce their learning.