Traits and inheritance are primarily controlled by nucleic acids , specifically DNA, which carries genetic information from one generation to the next. Genes, which are segments of DNA, encode instructions for making proteins that determine an organism's traits. During reproduction, gametes (sperm and egg cells) carry these nucleic acids to offspring, ensuring the transmission of genetic traits
. Key points:
- Nucleic acids (DNA) store and transmit genetic information essential for inheritance and trait determination
- Genes are units of inheritance located on chromosomes and control specific traits; they exist in different forms called alleles, which can be dominant or recessive
- Gametes carry one set of chromosomes (and thus one allele per gene) from each parent, combining during fertilization to restore the full genetic complement in offspring
- Proteins are synthesized based on genetic instructions and are responsible for the physical expression of traits, but they do not control inheritance themselves
- Environmental factors like temperature can influence the expression of traits but do not control inheritance directly
Inheritance patterns follow principles such as Mendel's laws, including dominance, segregation, and independent assortment, which explain how traits are passed and expressed
. In summary, nucleic acids (DNA) are the fundamental controllers of traits and inheritance, with gametes facilitating the transfer of this genetic material, and proteins executing the traits coded by genes. Temperature and other environmental factors may affect trait expression but do not govern inheritance itself.
