Question

Word Bank
protein molecule structure
trait variation


Why do these sisters have different traits? Use the above words in your response, describing what would determine these traits at the molecular scale.

Answer 1

The sisters have different traits due to variations in their DNA, which ultimately affect the protein molecules that are produced in their cells. These protein molecules are responsible for the development of specific structures and functions within the body, leading to the observable differences in traits, such as hair color or height.

At the molecular scale, variations in the genetic code influence how proteins are synthesized, thereby determining the unique characteristics or traits of each sister. For example, a slight change in the sequence of DNA might result in a different version of a protein, which can alter the cellular structure and functions, leading to distinct phenotypic expressions. Thus, the combination of genetic variation and the subsequent production of diverse protein molecules contributes to the sisters’ different traits.