6.1.13

Genotype vs Phenotype

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Genotype vs Phenotype

When talking about the inheritance of characteristics, we use the words genotype and phenotype:

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Genotype

  • Genotype refers to the combination of alleles an organism has.
    • If the two alleles are different, we say that the person is heterozygous (Bb).
    • If the two alleles are the same, we say that the person is homozygous (BB or bb).
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Phenotype

  • A phenotype is an observed characteristic of an individual.
  • The phenotype is determined by the interaction between the genotype and environment.
  • Earlobes being attached or free is an example of a phenotype, where the alleles present will determine a characteristic, unless the environment interferes.

Jump to other topics

1Cell Biology

1.1What's in Cells?

1.2Cell Division

1.3Transport in Cells

2Organisation

2.1Principles of Organisation

2.2Enzymes

2.3Circulatory System

2.4Non-Communicable Diseases

2.5Plant Tissues, Organs & Systems

3Infection & Response

4Bioenergetics

5Homeostasis & Response

5.1Homeostasis

5.2The Human Nervous System

5.3Hormonal Coordination in Humans

5.4Plant Hormones

6Inheritance, Variation & Evolution

7Ecology

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