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Difficulty: MediumBasic Genetics Terminology and Concepts

During a cytogenetic investigation of a diploid organism, a researcher observes two distinct nucleotide sequence variations of a single gene located at identical positions on homologous chromosomes. Which genetics term specifically describes these alternative forms of a gene?

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

Answer

The term that describes alternative forms of a gene occupying identical positions on homologous chromosomes is alleles.
The correct answer identifies alleles, which are alternative versions of a gene occupying identical loci on homologous chromosomes in diploid organisms.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the description given in the question stem
The stem describes variant molecular forms of a single gene at the same locus on homologous chromosomes.
Clear identification of gene variants versus whole structural entities is required.
2
Apply basic genetics terminology definitions
Alleles are defined as different functional or structural versions of a single gene that control contrasting expressions of a character.
This directly satisfies the genetic concept tested.

Key Concept

Alleles are alternative forms of a gene located at the same locus on homologous chromosomes.
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Topics

Basic Genetics Terminology and Concepts

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