Describe the meaning of the terms: gene, genetic locus, alleles, phenotype and genotype

A gene is a length of DNA that codes for a particular trait. ( Think of- jeans - they are long items (length) of clothing, what they're made out of determines what they are. This is a key concept of genetics)
The position of a gene on the chromosome is called the genetic locus . (LOCus LOCation)
For each gene there are alternative forms called alleles. (ALleles ALternatives)
The two alleles represent a genotype. This is the genetic make - up of an organism (GENotype -think GENetics)
The actual appearance of the trait represents the phenotype (PHenotype - think PHoto - how it appears)

EM

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the function of the cell nucleus?


What is the difference between mitosis and meiosis?


How does the body respond to an increase or decrease in temperature to maintain homeostasis?


Describe how a synapse works to transmit a nervous impulse from one neuron to another neuron.