Which phrase best describes the term genome? a. the genetic makeup of a chromosome b. the genes that make up an organism c. the location of a specific set of genes d. the sum of an organism’s physical traits Group of answer choices
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is b. the genes that make up an organism.
A genome refers to the complete set of genetic material (DNA) present in an organism. It includes all of the genes and the non-coding sequences of DNA that are present in the chromosomes. The genome holds all the information needed for the growth, development, and functioning of the organism.
The genetic makeup of a chromosome (option a) is incorrect because the genome encompasses more than just the genetic material on a single chromosome; it refers to the full complement of genes across all chromosomes of an organism.
The location of a specific set of genes (option c) is incorrect because this phrase describes specific gene loci, which are individual regions where genes are located on chromosomes, but does not capture the full range of an organism’s genome.
The sum of an organism’s physical traits (option d) refers to an organism’s phenotype, not its genome. The phenotype results from the expression of the genes in the genome in combination with environmental factors.
The genome is made up of both coding regions (which contain the instructions for building proteins and RNA molecules) and non-coding regions (which can have regulatory functions or may still be of unknown purpose). It contains all the hereditary information that is passed from one generation to the next, providing the blueprint for the organism’s structure and function. In humans, for example, the genome includes about 20,000-25,000 genes, each encoding instructions for producing proteins that carry out the biological functions of the body.
In summary, the genome represents the complete set of genetic material in an organism, including all of its genes, and is crucial for determining the biological traits and characteristics of that organism.
