Predict Possible Outcomes of Genetic Combinations
What is a Punnett square and how is it used in genetics?
A Punnett square is a diagram used to predict the genotype and phenotype combinations of a genetic cross. It shows all possible combinations of alleles from the parents.
Define homozygous and heterozygous. Give an example.
Homozygous means having two identical alleles for a trait (e.g., AA or aa), while heterozygous means having two different alleles (e.g., Aa).
What is homeostasis and how does it regulate body functions in animals?
Homeostasis is the process by which an organism maintains a stable internal environment, regulating factors like temperature, pH, and hydration.
What is the role of antibodies in the immune response of animals?
Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system that bind to specific antigens on pathogens, helping to neutralize or mark them for destruction.
How do the xylem and phloem contribute to plant transportation?
Xylem transports water and minerals from the roots to the leaves, while phloem carries sugars produced in the leaves to other parts of the plant.
How does independent assortment affect genetic variation?
Independent assortment occurs during meiosis when chromosomes are distributed randomly to gametes, resulting in genetic variation among offspring.
What is a genotype? How does it differ from a phenotype?
A genotype is the genetic makeup of an organism, while a phenotype is the physical characteristics that result from the genotype.
How does the digestive system interact with the circulatory system to absorb nutrients?
The digestive system breaks down food into nutrients, which are then absorbed into the bloodstream through the walls of the intestines.
Describe how skin acts as a barrier to protect animals from injury or illness.
Skin provides a physical barrier against pathogens and prevents water loss, while also containing immune cells that help fight infections.
Explain how root structures facilitate nutrient absorption in plants.
Root hairs increase the surface area for absorption of water and nutrients from the soil.
If a trait is dominant, what is its effect on the phenotype?
A dominant trait will express itself in the phenotype even if only one copy of the allele is present.
What is the probability of getting a homozygous recessive offspring from a cross between two heterozygous parents?
The probability is 25% or 1/4.
How does the respiratory system interact with the circulatory system in animals?
The respiratory system brings oxygen into the body, which is then transported by the circulatory system to cells, while carbon dioxide is carried back to the lungs to be exhaled.
What role do the immune system and circulatory system play in animal defense?
The immune system identifies and destroys pathogens, while the circulatory system transports immune cells and antibodies throughout the body.
Describe how the structure of a flower aids in reproduction.
Flowers have structures like stamens and pistils that facilitate pollination and fertilization, leading to the production of seeds.
How do guard cells help regulate water loss in plants?
Guard cells control the opening and closing of stomata, which helps manage water loss and gas exchange.
Name one way plants respond to environmental changes.
Plants can respond by bending toward light (phototropism) or growing roots deeper into the soil during drought.