215k views
5 votes
What is the relationship between a genome, chromosomes, and genes?

a) Genes are collections of chromosomes in a genome
b) Genes are segments of DNA found in chromosomes within a genome
c) Genes are a type of chromosome found in the genome
d) Chromosomes contain genomes, which house genes

1 Answer

7 votes

Final answer:

The relationship between a genome, chromosomes, and genes is that genes are segments of DNA within chromosomes, which collectively make up the genome of a cell.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct relationship between a genome, chromosomes, and genes is that genes are segments of DNA found in chromosomes within a genome. Chromosomes are coiled structures of DNA and proteins, which contain the genetic instructions for the traits of an organism. These instructions are organized into genes, which are the functional units of chromosomes, coding for specific proteins or, occasionally, RNA products. The entire genetic content of a cell is known as its genome, which includes all the chromosomes and therefore all the genes.

Human chromosomes typically contain tens of thousands of genes. In humans, there are 46 chromosomes in each somatic (body) cell which are arranged in 23 pairs. Each chromosome within a pair is inherited from one of the biological parents. The human genome encompasses all these chromosomes, and within them, the locations or loci of specific genes are fixed.

User Brian Wright
by
8.0k points