Final answer:
An allele is the possible form of a gene that codes for a particular trait. It is part of an individual's genotype and contributes to the observable characteristics expressed by the organism, known as the phenotype.
Step-by-step explanation:
The possible form of a gene that codes for a particular trait is known as an allele. An allele is one version or variant of a gene, and an individual usually has two alleles for each gene, one inherited from each parent. Genotype refers to the combination of alleles an individual has, while phenotype describes the observable characteristics expressed by an organism.