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DNA. We have heard that we are a product of our DNA. But where is it? How do we "get" our DNA? It is passed to us, from our parents, but in what form? Several vocabulary words associated with inheritance are used interchangeably and sometimes, incorrectly. Let's see if you can clear this up for someone just learning about inheritance and cell structure.

Check out the illustration above. Using the CORRECT terminology, matched with the correct lettered structures, explain how all are related to inheritance.
A. This cell (B) contains chromosomes (A) in the nucleus (C). The chromosomes are made up of genes (D) that are made of short strands of DNA (E).This cell (B) contains chromosomes (A) in the nucleus (C). The chromosomes are made up of genes (D) that are made of short strands of DNA (E).
B. In every cell on Earth (B), DNA (A) is found in the nucleus (C). The DNA is organized into genes (D) which build chromosomes (E), which we inherit from our parents.In every cell on Earth (B), DNA (A) is found in the nucleus (C). The DNA is organized into genes (D) which build chromosomes (E), which we inherit from our parents.
C. This is a cell (B) with a nucleus (C) containing DNA (A). The DNA is organized into chromosomes (D). A section of the chromosome that codes for a trait is called a gene (E).This is a cell (B) with a nucleus (C) containing DNA (A). The DNA is organized into chromosomes (D). A section of the chromosome that codes for a trait is called a gene (E).
D. This is a cell (B) with a nucleus (C) that contains 46 chromosomes (A). The chromosomes are makeup of many genes (E) that, in turn, are made up of long strands of tightly coiled DNA (D).

1 answer

To clarify the relationships between DNA, chromosomes, genes, and cell structure using correct terminology, let's go through the options you provided while ensuring that each element is defined accurately.

  1. Cells (B): These are the basic units of life. All living organisms are made up of cells. Each cell contains genetic material that dictates the traits of the organism.

  2. Nucleus (C): This is a membrane-bound organelle found in eukaryotic cells (like those of humans and many other organisms) that houses the cell's genetic material. It is essentially the control center of the cell.

  3. DNA (E): Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is the hereditary material in all living organisms. It is the molecule that carries the genetic instructions used in growth, development, functioning, and reproduction.

  4. Chromosomes (A): These are structures within the nucleus that are made up of DNA tightly coiled around proteins (histones). Chromosomes are the organized and condensed form of DNA that is visible during cell division.

  5. Genes (D): These are segments of DNA located on chromosomes that code for specific traits or functions. Each gene occupies a specific location (locus) on a chromosome.

Now, let's clarify how these terms fit together correctly in relation to inheritance:

Correct Explanation:

In every cell (B) of an organism, the genetic material is contained within the nucleus (C). The DNA (E) is organized into structures known as chromosomes (A). Each chromosome is made up of numerous genes (D), which are specific sequences of DNA that encode instructions for traits. When organisms reproduce, they pass on their chromosomes, and therefore their genes and DNA, to their offspring, leading to the inheritance of traits.

Example of the Correct Ensembles:

  • A: This cell (B) contains chromosomes (A) in the nucleus (C). The chromosomes are made up of genes (D) that are made of short strands of DNA (E).
  • B: In every cell on Earth (B), DNA (E) is found in the nucleus (C). The DNA is organized into genes (D) which build chromosomes (A), which we inherit from our parents.
  • C: This is a cell (B) with a nucleus (C) containing DNA (E). The DNA is organized into chromosomes (A). A section of the chromosome that codes for a trait is called a gene (D).
  • D: This is a cell (B) with a nucleus (C) that contains chromosomes (A). The chromosomes are made up of many genes (D) that, in turn, are made up of long strands of tightly coiled DNA (E).

These components work together to form the basis of inheritance, with DNA at the core, organized into chromosomes, and functioning through genes that dictate the traits of an organism.