Which phrase best describes genetics? A the science of life B the science of heredity C the science of reproduction D the science of pea plants
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: B. The science of heredity
Explanation:
Genetics is best described as the science of heredity, which makes option B the correct answer. Heredity refers to the passing of traits from parents to offspring through genes. Genetics is the branch of biology that studies how these traits are inherited, how genetic information is stored and transmitted, and how it influences the characteristics of organisms.
The foundation of genetics was laid in the mid-1800s by Gregor Mendel, an Austrian monk who conducted experiments with pea plants. He observed patterns of inheritance and formulated principles such as the laws of segregation and independent assortment. These principles explain how traits are passed from one generation to the next. Although Mendel worked with pea plants, genetics itself is much broader, extending to all living organisms.
Genes are segments of DNA that serve as instructions for building proteins, which in turn influence an organism’s traits. These traits can include physical characteristics like eye color or height as well as susceptibility to certain diseases. Genetic information is stored in chromosomes, which are passed from parents to offspring during reproduction.
Option A, “the science of life,” more accurately describes biology as a whole rather than genetics specifically. Option C, “the science of reproduction,” is too narrow because reproduction is just one process through which genes are passed on, but genetics includes many other aspects such as gene expression, mutations, and genetic disorders. Option D, “the science of pea plants,” refers to Mendel’s research but does not accurately define the entire field of genetics.
In summary, genetics is the study of heredity and the variation of inherited characteristics, making “the science of heredity” the most accurate and comprehensive description.
