Module 2 Lesson 1: How Traits Change

What is a permanent change in the sequence of DNA?

• Mutation

• DNA replication

• Chromosomal crossover

• Gene expression

Answer explanation

A mutation is a permanent change in the DNA sequence, which can occur due to various factors. Unlike DNA replication, chromosomal crossover, or gene expression, mutations directly alter the genetic code.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS3-2

How does a trait appear or is expressed?

• A trait is solely determined by diet and nutrition.

• A trait appears through the expression of genes influenced by environmental factors.

• A trait is expressed only in the absence of environmental influences.

• A trait appears randomly without any genetic basis.

Answer explanation

A trait is expressed through the interaction of genes and environmental factors, making the correct choice that traits appear via gene expression influenced by the environment.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS3-1

NGSS.HS-LS3-2

What does it mean when something is random?

• When something is random, it occurs without a predictable pattern or reason.

• It can be easily replicated every time.

• It is always predictable and consistent.

• It follows a strict set of rules.

Answer explanation

When something is random, it means it happens without a predictable pattern or reason, making the correct choice the one that accurately describes randomness.

What does it mean for something to be permanent?

• Permanent means lasting indefinitely without change.

• A state that can be easily altered.

• Only applicable in specific situations.

• Temporary and subject to change.

Answer explanation

Permanent refers to something that lasts indefinitely without change, distinguishing it from temporary states that can be altered or are subject to change. Thus, the correct choice is that permanent means lasting indefinitely without change.

What is a substitution mutation?

• A substitution mutation is a type of mutation that affects protein folding.

• A substitution mutation involves the addition of an extra base pair in the DNA sequence.

• A substitution mutation is a genetic mutation where one base pair is replaced by another in the DNA sequence.

• A substitution mutation is when a base pair is deleted from the DNA sequence.

Answer explanation

A substitution mutation specifically refers to a genetic mutation where one base pair in the DNA sequence is replaced by another. This distinguishes it from other mutations like insertions or deletions.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS3-2

What is an insertion mutation?

Answer explanation

An insertion mutation is a type of genetic mutation where one or more nucleotide bases are added into a DNA sequence. This can lead to changes in the protein produced, potentially affecting an organism's traits.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS3-2

What is a deletion mutation?

• A deletion mutation is a genetic mutation involving the loss of one or more nucleotides from a DNA sequence.

• A deletion mutation adds extra nucleotides to a DNA sequence.

• A deletion mutation is a type of RNA modification.

• A deletion mutation occurs only in protein-coding regions of DNA.

Answer explanation

A deletion mutation specifically refers to the loss of one or more nucleotides from a DNA sequence, making the first choice correct. The other options incorrectly describe the nature of deletion mutations.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS3-2

What does exposure mean in a biological context?

• Exposure means the contact of an organism with a substance that may affect its health.

• Exposure means the ability of an organism to adapt to its environment.

• Exposure is the method by which organisms reproduce.

• Exposure refers to the process of digestion in organisms.

Answer explanation

In a biological context, exposure refers to the contact of an organism with a substance that may impact its health, making the first answer choice correct. The other options do not accurately define exposure.

What is a trait?

• A trait is a method of communication.

• A trait is a distinguishing characteristic or quality.

• A trait is a physical object.

• A trait is a type of animal.

Answer explanation

A trait refers to a distinguishing characteristic or quality that defines an individual or a group. This definition clearly aligns with the correct answer choice, distinguishing it from the other options.

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS3-1

What does beneficial mean?

• Beneficial means producing good results or helpful effects.

• Beneficial means causing harm or damage.

• Beneficial is a term used to describe something that is always negative.

• Beneficial refers to something that is neutral and has no effect.

Answer explanation

Beneficial means producing good results or helpful effects, which aligns with the correct answer choice. The other options incorrectly define the term as harmful, negative, or neutral.