What is the difference between a gene, a chromosome and DNA?

Genes, chromosomes and DNA are three vital components of cells and many students often confuse them with each other.

DNA stands for Deoxyribose Nucleic Acid. DNA molecules contain the genetic code which is made from a sequence of amino acids. The genetic code is unique for each person.

Genes are short sections of DNA. Each gene (short DNA section) contains a code for a specific sequence of amino acids that codes for a specific protein in the body.

Chromosomes are made from DNA molecules and are found in the cell nucleus. 

EH

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain what a synapse is and explain how information passes across a synapse


Describe the difference between the function of a receptor and function of an effector; give an example of each.


What is the difference between a gene and an allele?


Explain the process of evolution by natural selection