Homework #41: Evolution of Sick Humans Day 3-5

Front

What is lactase?

Back

Lactase is an enzyme that breaks down lactose, a sugar found in milk, into glucose and galactose.

Front

What happens if someone doesn't produce enough lactase?

Back

They experience digestive discomfort after consuming dairy.

Front

What is lactose intolerance?

Back

Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose due to insufficient lactase production, leading to digestive issues.

Front

What is gene-culture co-evolution?

Back

Gene-culture co-evolution refers to the interaction between genetic evolution and cultural practices, such as how dairy farming influenced the spread of lactase persistence.

Front

What is the main cause of genetic variation within a population?

Back

Mutations are the primary source of genetic variation within a population.

Front

What is the function of the enzyme lactase?

Back

The function of lactase is to break down lactose into glucose and galactose.

Front

What is a mutation?

Back

A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence that can lead to genetic variation.

Front

How does natural selection relate to evolution?

Back

Natural selection is the process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring, driving evolution.

Front

What is the complementary DNA strand for C-T-T-A-G-G?

Back

The complementary DNA strand is G-A-A-T-C-C.

Front

What role does migration play in genetic variation?

Back

Migration introduces new genes into a population, contributing to genetic diversity.