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

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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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Calculate the latitude of a mariner who has measured the noon Sun altitude as 60° above the southern horizon on August 13.

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Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

Which of the following countries is NOT in Middle America?

a. Belize b. Costa Rica c. Guatemala d. Honduras e. Columbia

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

By the 19th Century, high-culture citizens of Russian emulated another world region. Which region?

A) East Asia B) South Asia C) North America D) Northern Latin America E) Western Europe

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

If you travel west through 10° of longitude along the equator, the distance traveled will be very different from the distance traveled through 10° of longitude at 60° N. Why?

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Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences