Genetics and Mutations Quiz

Changes in the structure of a chromosome, often leading to incorrect reattachment or loss of a chromosome section.

A mutation that changes a single nucleotide in DNA.

A mutation that has no noticeable effect on the organism.

Mutations that occur in cells that give rise to gametes (sperm and egg) and can be passed down to offspring.

Mutations that occur in non-reproductive cells and are not inherited by offspring.

Mutations that benefit the organism, enabling it to adapt to its environment and potentially enhancing survival or reproduction.

Mutations that occur in bacteria making them resistant to antibiotics.

A mutation that protects individuals from a specific disease.

A permanent change in the nucleotide sequence of an organism's DNA.

Mutations can be caused by errors during DNA replication, exposure to harmful agents like radiation, or even spontaneous occurrences.

Mutations that occur in reproductive cells (sperm or egg) and can be passed on to offspring.

Mutations that occur in any cell of the body except for reproductive cells, meaning they cannot be passed on.

Mutations are essential for evolution. They introduce new genetic variations, leading to adaptation and diversification of species.

Most mutations have no noticeable effect. Some are beneficial, while others can have harmful consequences.

Environmental factors that can increase the rate of mutations.

A change in the sequence of bases in DNA or RNA.

The failure of replicated chromosomes to separate during meiosis, resulting in gametes with missing or extra chromosomes.

A condition in which a person has an extra copy (complete or partial) of chromosome 21. It causes developmental delays, distinctive facial features, and other abnormalities.

A genetic condition where females have one X chromosome but no other sex chromosome (XO). It affects sexual development, leading to short height and infertility.

A condition where females have three X chromosomes (XXX). It can cause mild developmental delays and menstrual irregularities.

A genetic condition where males have one Y chromosome and two or more X chromosomes (XXY, XXXY). It leads to issues in sexual development and reduced testosterone.

The gradual process of change over a long time resulting in the diversity of life forms we see today. It's driven by adaptations to changing environments.

Evidence supporting the idea that organisms have evolved. Some examples include fossils, anatomical similarities, and molecular similarities.

The process by which populations of organisms with traits that better suit their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on those advantageous traits.

The remains or traces of ancient organisms preserved in rock, often providing insights into past life forms and environments.

A method used to determine the age of fossils by analyzing the decay of radioactive isotopes within them. It provides a timeline for the evolution of life.

The study of the distribution of organisms across the Earth, revealing patterns of evolution and adaptation to different environments.

The comparison of body structures, such as bones or organs, in different species to identify similarities and differences that indicate evolutionary relationships.

Changes in the form, structure, and functions of organisms over time, driven by environmental pressures and natural selection.

The proposal that organisms acquire traits during their lifetime through use or disuse of organs, and these traits are passed on to offspring.

The idea that organisms use or disuse particular organs depending on their environment, which influences their traits.

The process where an organism adapts to its environment by developing new traits that are beneficial for survival and reproduction.

Acquired characteristics (like a giraffe's long neck) ARE NOT passed down to offspring.

Variations within a population are RANDOM, not driven by a need to adapt.

Organisms with traits best suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce.

Inherited traits are passed down from parents to offspring, influencing their chances of survival.

Over time, the population changes as the traits of the best-adapted individuals become more common.

Modern evolutionary theory combines Darwin's natural selection with the understanding of genetics.

Changes to the genetic material (DNA) are a key source of variation in populations.

The shuffling of genes during sexual reproduction also contributes to variations within a population.

A genetic disorder is a disease caused by a mutation in one or more genes. Examples include cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia.

A chromosomal disorder is a genetic condition caused by an abnormality in the number or structure of chromosomes. Examples include Down syndrome and Turner syndrome.

Nondisjunction happens when chromosomes do not separate properly during meiosis. This results in an abnormal number of chromosomes in the gametes and can lead to chromosomal disorders.

Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by a defective protein in connective tissue, leading to heart and bone defects and long limbs.

Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disorder caused by an abnormal hemoglobin protein in red blood cells. This leads to sickle-shaped red blood cells causing blockages.

Vitamin D-resistant rickets is a genetic disorder caused by a lack of a substance needed for bones to absorb minerals. This results in weak bones and deformities.

Hemophilia A is a genetic disorder caused by reduced activity of a protein needed for blood clotting. This leads to excessive bleeding.