Question 1

Which structure is responsible for packaging DNA into a compact form within the nucleus, as shown in the first image?

Accepted Answer

Chromosome

Question 2

In humans, what is the diploid number of chromosomes in a somatic cell, and how is it represented mathematically?

Accepted Answer

46, $$2n = 46$$

Question 3

During meiosis, homologous chromosomes separate in which phase, and what is the result for the alleles at a given locus?

Accepted Answer

Meiosis I; alleles segregate into different gametes

Question 4

If a gamete contains 22 autosomes and an X chromosome, what is the total chromosome number and type of gamete?

Accepted Answer

23 chromosomes; sperm

Question 5

What is the relationship between genotype and phenotype?

Accepted Answer

Genotype describes genetic makeup; phenotype describes physical traits

Question 6

A cell with $$2n = 6$$ chromosomes has duplicated its DNA. How many sister chromatids are present?

Accepted Answer

12

Question 7

Which term describes an organism with two identical alleles for a particular gene?

Accepted Answer

Homozygous

Question 8

If an organism has genotype GgTt and the G and T loci are on different arms of a metacentric chromosome, what does this imply about gene linkage?

Accepted Answer

The genes are not linked and can assort independently

Question 9

Which equation correctly represents the number of possible gamete combinations for an organism with genotype AaBb?

Accepted Answer

$$2^n$$, where $$n is $$the number of heterozygous gene pairs

Question 10

Polyploidy is most commonly found in which group, and why is it less common in animals?

Accepted Answer

Plants; because polyploidy does not disrupt genetic balance

Question 11

During fertilization, how are alleles inherited at a given locus?

Accepted Answer

One allele comes from each parent

Question 12

Which structure is indicated by the arrows in the sixth image, and what is its significance?

Accepted Answer

Gene locus; it is the fixed position of a gene on a chromosome

Question 13

If a cell undergoes mitosis, what is the chromosome number in each daughter cell compared to the original cell?

Accepted Answer

Same as the original number

Question 14

Which process results in genetic variation during meiosis, as illustrated in the seventh image?

Accepted Answer

Crossing over

Question 15

What is the definition of an allele?

Accepted Answer

A variant form of a gene

Question 16

If an organism is heterozygous for a gene, what is its genotype?

Accepted Answer

Aa

Question 17

Which equation represents the total number of chromosomes in a human zygote?

Accepted Answer

$$2n = 46$$

Question 18

What is the significance of homologous chromosomes carrying genes controlling the same inherited characters?

Accepted Answer

They allow for genetic variation through recombination

Question 19

Which term describes the specific location of a gene on a chromosome?

Accepted Answer

Locus

Question 20

If a plant species is polyploid, what is the minimum number of chromosome sets it must have?

Accepted Answer

More than two

Chromosomes, Cell Division, and Mendelian Genetics: Core Concepts and Applications

Study Guide - Practice Questions