Final answer:
A collection of two or more genes in a particular species that are similar to each other is known as a gene. Genes are segments of DNA that carry codes for making specific polypeptide chains or RNA molecules. They are responsible for hereditary traits and characteristics in organisms.
Step-by-step explanation:
A collection of two or more genes in a particular species that are similar to each other is known as a gene. Genes are segments of DNA that carry codes for making specific polypeptide chains or RNA molecules. They are responsible for hereditary traits and characteristics in organisms. For example, there are three different alleles that encode ABO blood type in humans: IA, IB, and i.
Genetic inheritance operates through the genes a offspring receive from each parent within a pair of homologous chromosomes. These homologous chromosomes include varying sequences or alleles which contribute to the individual's phenotype. For instance, the human ABO blood type is determined by which of the alleles, coded by sequences A, B, or O, a person inherits. The combination of these alleles, such as AA, BB, AO, or BO, will dictate the observable trait - in this case, an individual's blood type.