Question

Match each of the following terms with its definition: 1\. Zygote 2\. Gene 3\. Chromosome a. Smallest unit through which genetic information is passed b. Fertilized egg c. Rod-shaped structure containing genetic information

Short answer

1. Zygote - b. Fertilized egg, 2. Gene - a. Smallest unit through which genetic information is passed, 3. Chromosome - c. Rod-shaped structure containing genetic information

Step-by-step solution

Identify the definitions

To start with, read each term and definition carefully. Consider the meaning of each term and try to connect it with the respective definition. Breakdown of the definitions:\n\nZygote - This is a biological term which refers to the cell formed when two gametes (sperm and egg) fuse. The correct match should therefore be the definition that refers to a type of cell or egg.\n\nGene - This is a scientific term referring to a distinct sequence of nucleotides forming part of a chromosome, the order of which determines the order of monomers in a polypeptide or nucleic acid molecule which a cell (or virus) may synthesize. It should be thus matched with the definition that refers to genetic information.\n\nChromosome - This refers to a thread-like structure of nucleic acids and protein found in the nucleus of most living cells, carrying genetic information in the form of genes. This should match with the definition that speaks about some structure containing genetic information.

Match the terms

Now, match each term with the correct definition. From our breakdown:\n\n1. Zygote should match with 'b. Fertilized egg'\n\n2. Gene should match with 'a. Smallest unit through which genetic information is passed'\n\n3. Chromosome should match with 'c. Rod-shaped structure containing genetic information'

Key concepts

Understanding the Zygote

A zygote is one of the most important starting points in the journey of life. It is the cell formed immediately after the fusion of sperm and egg, marking the beginning of a new organism's developmental process. This fertilized egg contains all the genetic material necessary to develop into a fully grown organism.
The zygote carries a complete set of chromosomes, inheriting half from each parent. This means the fertilized egg encompasses genetic traits that the future individual will express.
- Formation: The zygote is formed when a sperm cell successfully fertilizes an egg cell. This combination creates a single-celled entity with the potential to develop into a multicellular organism through various mitotic divisions. - Significance: As the first stage of life, the zygote's formation is crucial, setting the scene for the process of growth and development through cellular differentiation and multiplication.

Exploring the Gene

Genes are like the instruction manuals for our bodies. They consist of DNA sequences that determine how our cells function and what specific traits or characteristics an organism will inherit.
Genes are responsible for encoding the proteins that are essential for maintaining the various cellular processes in living organisms. Each gene is a segment located on a chromosome and serves as a fundamental unit of heredity, passing genetic information from one generation to the next.
- Function: Each gene contains information necessary to produce a particular protein or enzyme that plays a role in the body's growth, development, and functioning. - Variety: Humans have thousands of different genes that contribute to the vast diversity seen in our species by instructing cells on how to construct proteins differently. - Inheritance: Genes are inherited from parents, transmitting shared traits, whether they are physical appearances like hair color or internal attributes like blood type.

The Role of Chromosomes

Chromosomes are the organized structures composed of DNA and protein found in the cell nucleus. They play a pivotal role in an organism's ability to maintain and transmit genetic information.
Each chromosome houses many genes arranged in sequence, ensuring the correct transmission of genetic information during cell division processes like mitosis and meiosis.
- Structure: Chromosomes are often described as rod-shaped due to their appearance under a microscope during certain phases of cell division. - Number: Humans typically possess 23 pairs of chromosomes, totaling 46. This complement includes 22 pairs of autosomes and one pair of sex chromosomes, which determines an individual's sex.
- Function: During cell division, chromosomes ensure the orderly and precise distribution of genetic material to daughter cells, preventing genetic imbalances or defects. Understanding chromosomes is essential in genetics education as they are central to heredity, genetic variation, and disease.