Evolutionary Biology and Genetics Quiz

Definition: Study of the origins and changes in the diversity of life over time.
Key Concepts:
- Natural Selection: Mechanism proposed by Charles Darwin; organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.
- ** genetic Drift**: Random changes in allele frequencies in small populations.
- Gene Flow: Exchange of genes between populations through migration.
- Speciation: Process by which new species arise; can occur via allopatric (geographic isolation) or sympatric (reproductive isolation) mechanisms.
- Common Descent: The principle that all living organisms share a common ancestor.

Definition: Study of genes, genetic variation, and heredity in organisms.
Key Concepts:
- DNA Structure: Double helix composed of nucleotides (adenine, thymine, cytosine, guanine).
- Genes: Segments of DNA that code for proteins; basic unit of heredity.
- Alleles: Different forms of a gene; may be dominant or recessive.
- Genotype vs. Phenotype:
  - Genotype: Genetic makeup of an individual.
  - Phenotype: Observable traits resulting from the interaction of genotype with the environment.
- Mendelian Inheritance: Principles of inheritance established by Gregor Mendel, including the Law of Segregation and Law of Independent Assortment.
- Mutations: Changes in DNA sequence that can lead to genetic diversity or disease.
Modern Genetics:
- Genomics: Study of the complete set of genes (genome) in an organism.
- CRISPR: A tool for gene editing that allows precise modifications to DNA.

Focuses on the origins and evolution of life's diversity throughout history.
Natural Selection: A key mechanism of evolution where organisms that are better suited to their environments survive and reproduce more successfully; rooted in Charles Darwin's theory.
Genetic Drift: Refers to random fluctuations in allele frequencies, especially significant in small populations, leading to evolutionary change.
Gene Flow: Involves the transfer of genetic material between populations through migration, affecting genetic variation.
Speciation: The formation of new species can result from:
- Allopatric Isolation: Geographic barriers that prevent gene flow.
- Sympatric Isolation: Reproductive barriers that occur without geographic separation.
Common Descent: Asserts that all living organisms have evolved from a shared ancestor, reinforcing the interconnectedness of life.

Examines the principles of genes, genetic variation, and the inheritance process in organisms.
DNA Structure: Composed of two intertwined strands forming a double helix, built from nucleotides: adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine.
Genes: Fundamental units of heredity, segments of DNA that encode proteins, influencing development and function.
Alleles: Variants of a gene that can express as dominant or recessive traits in an organism.
Genotype vs. Phenotype:
- Genotype: The specific genetic makeup of an individual.
- Phenotype: The physical and observable characteristics that result from genotype-environment interactions.
Mendelian Inheritance: Principles identified by Gregor Mendel, detailing how traits are inherited through the:
- Law of Segregation: Alleles segregate independently during gamete formation.
- Law of Independent Assortment: Genes for different traits are inherited independently.
Mutations: Alterations in the DNA sequence that can introduce new genetic variations and potentially lead to diseases.
Modern Genetics:
- Genomics: The comprehensive study of an organism’s complete genetic material.
- CRISPR: A revolutionary gene-editing technology enabling targeted modifications in DNA sequences, advancing genetic research and therapy.