Heredity and genetics are fundamental concepts in biology that explain how traits are passed from one generation to the next. Heredity refers to the transmission of traits, characteristics, and genetic information from parents to offspring. Genetics, on the other hand, is the scientific study of genes, genetic variation, and heredity mechanisms.
MCQs on heredity and genetics practice now
Key points about heredity and genetics:
- Genes and DNA: Genes are segments of DNA that contain the instructions for building and maintaining an organism. DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is the genetic material that carries the information necessary for the development and functioning of living organisms.
- Inheritance: Offspring inherit genetic material from their parents, resulting in a combination of traits that are a mix of both parents. These traits can include physical characteristics, susceptibility to certain diseases, and more.
- Genetic Variation: Genetic variation refers to the differences in DNA sequences among individuals within a species. This variation is responsible for the diversity seen in traits across populations.
- Chromosomes: Genes are organized into chromosomes. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes (46 in total), with one set inherited from the mother and the other from the father.
- Dominant and Recessive Traits: Some traits are dominant, meaning that even if an individual has only one copy of the gene, the trait will be expressed. Others are recessive, requiring two copies of the gene for the trait to be expressed.
- Genotype and Phenotype: Genotype refers to the genetic makeup of an individual, while phenotype refers to the observable traits and characteristics resulting from the interaction between the genotype and the environment.
- Mendelian Genetics: Gregor Mendel is often called the “father of modern genetics.” His experiments with pea plants laid the foundation for understanding the principles of inheritance, including the concepts of dominant and recessive traits.
- Modern Genetics: Advances in technology have allowed scientists to study genes at the molecular level, leading to breakthroughs in understanding how genes function, mutate, and interact. This knowledge has led to advancements in areas like genetic engineering, personalized medicine, and the study of complex genetic disorders.
- Genetic Disorders: Mutations or changes in genes can lead to genetic disorders, which can range from mild to severe. Some disorders are caused by single gene mutations, while others result from the interaction of multiple genes and environmental factors.
- Genetic Counseling: As our understanding of genetics has grown, so has the importance of genetic counseling. This practice helps individuals and families understand their risk of genetic disorders and make informed decisions about family planning and healthcare.
MCQs on heredity and genetics
Q1. Who is the father of modern genetics?
(a) Gregor Johann Mendel
(b) Hugo De Vries
(c) Charles Darwin
(d) Thomas Hunt Morgan
Q2. The unit of heredity in our body is called
(a) Chromosome
(b) DNA
(c) Gene
(d) Nucleus
Q3. Gene is
(a) A segment of DNA
(b) A segment of DNA and histone
(c) A segment of DNA, RNA and histone
(d) All of the above
Q4. Change in the base sequence within a gene is called:
(a) Mutation
(b) Cloning
(c) Fusion
(d) Breeding
Q5. Hereditary symptoms are moved in the descendant of creatures by
(a) Ribosome
(b) Chromosome
(c) Plasma
(d) Lysosome
Q6. Sexual reproduction causes genetic variation because of
(a) Blending of genes
(b) Chromosomal changes
(c) Shuffl ing of genes
(d) All of the above
Q7. Nobel Prize winning scientist James D.Watson is known for his work in which area?
(a) Metallurgy
(b) Meteorology
(c) Environmental protection
(d) Genetics
Q8. The sugar present in DNA is :
(a) Glucose
(b) Fructose
(c) Deoxyribose
(d) Ribose
Q9. Ribozymes are :
(a) DNA
(b) RNA
(c) Proteins
(d) None of these
Q10. Chromosome number in any species :
(a) increase by age
(b) decrease by age
(c) is constant
(d) increase with the weight
Q11. Which of the following does not have sex-chromosome?
(a) Monkey
(b) Tiger
(c) Butterfly
(d) Lizard
Q12. How many chromosomes are there in humans?
(a) 36
(b) 46
(c) 56
(d) 26
Q13. Male’s gene constituent is
(a) XX
(b) XY
(c) X
(d) Y
Q14. Which combination of chromosomes in mankind give birth to a male child?
(a) X of male and X of female
(b) X of male and Y of female
(c) Y of male and X of female
(d) Y of male and Y of female
Q15. The genetic makeup of an individual is referred to as:
a) Phenotype
b) Genotype
c) Allele
d) Chromosome
Q16. What term describes an individual with two different alleles for a particular gene?
a) Homozygous
b) Heterozygous
c) Recessive
d) Dominant
Q17. Which genetic disorder is characterized by the absence of melanin, resulting in pale skin, hair, and eyes?
a) Albinism
b) Sickle cell anemia
c) Duchenne muscular dystrophy
d) Colour blindness
Q18. A carrier of a genetic disorder:
a) Always shows symptoms of the disorder
b) Has two copies of the mutated gene
c) Can pass the mutated gene to offspring without being affected
d) Is always heterozygous for the mutated gene
Q19. Which of Mendel’s laws states that the alleles of different genes segregate independently of each other during gamete formation?
a) Law of Dominance
b) Law of Segregation
c) Law of Independent Assortment
d) Law of Incomplete Dominance
What is heredity, and how does it work?
Heredity is the process by which traits and genetic information are passed from parents to offspring. It involves the transmission of DNA, which contains genes responsible for various traits. Offspring inherit a combination of genes from both parents, contributing to their unique characteristics.
What is the difference between genotype and phenotype?
Genotype refers to the specific genetic makeup of an individual, including the alleles (gene variants) they carry. Phenotype, on the other hand, refers to the observable physical and functional traits that result from the interaction between the genotype and environmental factors.
What are dominant and recessive traits?
Dominant traits are expressed when an individual carries at least one dominant allele of a gene. In contrast, recessive traits are only expressed when an individual has two copies of the recessive allele. Dominant alleles mask the expression of recessive alleles in heterozygous individuals.
How do genetic mutations contribute to genetic diversity?
Genetic mutations are changes in the DNA sequence of genes. They can introduce new variations in the genetic code, leading to genetic diversity within populations. Some mutations can be harmful, while others might have no significant effect or even provide an advantage in certain environments
What is genetic counseling, and when is it recommended?
Genetic counseling is a process in which individuals or families receive information and guidance about the risk of genetic disorders. It involves assessing family histories, discussing genetic testing options, and helping individuals make informed decisions about family planning and medical care, especially when there’s a higher risk of passing on a genetic condition.