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Difficulty: MediumBasic Genetics Terminology and Concepts

In genetic studies of pea plants, the gene governing flower placement exists as two structural variants: axial (AA) and terminal (aa). Which of the following terms specifically describes these alternative forms of a single gene that occupy identical locations on homologous chromosomes?

  1. AllelesAnswer
  2. B
    Loci
  3. C
    Phenotypes
  4. D
    Sister chromatids

Answer

Alleles are the alternative forms of a gene occupying identical positions on homologous chromosomes.
The term alleles specifically denotes alternative molecular sequence forms of the same gene that occupy corresponding loci on homologous chromosomes and determine contrasting traits.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the biological entity described in the stem.
The stem describes alternative molecular forms of a gene (axial AA vs terminal aa) controlling the same trait.
Genes often exist in multiple structural variations that lead to contrasting characteristics.
2
Differentiate between gene location and gene variant.
The physical position on a chromosome is a locus, whereas the contrasting gene versions located at that locus are alleles.
Distinguishing between structural variants (alleles) and positional coordinates (loci) is essential in basic genetics.

Key Concept

Alleles and Gene Loci
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Basic Genetics Terminology and Concepts

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