What is a gene? Why so many of an organism's traits are determined by its genes?

What will be an ideal response?


A gene is a section of DNA that contains the instructions for building a protein. Many organismal traits are determined by genes because the proteins they code for play a huge variety of roles in living organisms. Proteins provide structure, act as hormones, transport molecules, function in cell communication, and protect organisms from disease. In addition, the all-important enzymes, which are required for practically every chemical reaction in cells, are proteins as well.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

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Which isomer of pentane has the lowest boiling point?

A) pentane B) 2-methylbutane C) 2,2-dimethylpropane D) None, they all have the same boiling point.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

How does bonding affect the hardness of a crystal?

A) Covalently bonded crystals are harder than ionically bonded crystals. B) Ionically bonded crystals are harder than covalently bonded crystals. C) Some ionically bonded crystals are harder than covalently bonded crystals, depending on the charges of ions involved. D) Some covalently bonded crystals are harder than ionically bonded crystals.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

Ocean water evolved ____

A)from condensation of water vapor in a hydrogen rich atmosphere B)from condensation of water vapor from volcanic eruptions C)as Earth warmed D)with accumulation of rainfall E)as glaciers melted

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

Which of the following is a dark-colored silicate mineral?

A. potassium feldspar B. muscovite C. quartz D. biotite E. None of these choices are correct.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences