Heredity

Definition

Heredity is the passing of genetic traits from parents to offspring through their DNA. It is a fundamental principle that governs the inheritance of physical and biochemical characteristics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Genes, which are segments of DNA, are the basic units of heredity.
2. Gregor Mendel's experiments with pea plants laid the foundation for understanding heredity.
3. Mutations in DNA can lead to variations in inherited traits, some of which may cause diseases.
4. Hereditary information is encoded in the sequence of nucleotides in DNA molecules.
5. During sexual reproduction, offspring inherit a combination of genes from both parents, leading to genetic diversity.

Review Questions

• What are genes and how do they relate to heredity?
• How did Gregor Mendel contribute to our understanding of heredity?
• Why are mutations important in the context of heredity?

Related terms

Gene: A segment of DNA that contains coding for a protein or RNA molecule.

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

Genetic Diversity: The total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species.