Heredity


 
 
Concept Explanation
 

Heredity

1.  The traits, or characteristics, of a species are passed down from one generation to another. 

2.  The closer the relationship, the greater is the similarity.

  • This continuity of traits, which is maintained for all species and passed down to succeeding generations, is called heredity. However, along with the similarities between brothers and sisters, there is also some dissimilarity.
  • The dissimilarities are called variations. The study of the pattern of transmission of characters from parents to their offspring is called genetics.  It is common knowledge that 'Like begets like' i.e., like produces like'. This means human beings give birth to babies, a cat gives birth to kittens-there is continuity of life.
  • Although the offsprings resemble their parent in basic body design but they are not identical to them. They show some characters or traits in which they differ from one another and also from their parents.
  • These differences are as obvious as their resemblance. These differences and resemblances among the offspring and parents are not coincidental.
  • These characters are present in the parents and are passed on to the offspring during reproduction. Here the gametes from both the parents fuse to form a zygote which develops into the offspring.
  • Hence, a cat gives birth to a kitten and a wheat plant into a wheat seed which grows into a wheat plant. This is the essence of heredity.
  • Sample Questions
    (More Questions for each concept available in Login)
    Question : 1

    The study of the pattern of transmission of characters from parents to their offspring is called _______________________ .

    Right Option : A
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    Explanation
    Question : 2

    Which of the following are correct ?

    (a) Heredity means that the traits, or characteristics, of a species are passed down from one generation to another. 

    (b) The dissimilarities are called genetics.

    (c)  Along with the similarities between brothers and sisters, there is also some dissimilarity.

     

    .

    Right Option : C
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    Explanation
    Question : 3

    This continuity of traits, which is maintained for all species and passed down to succeeding generations, is called ______________________ .

    Right Option : A
    View Explanation
    Explanation
     
     
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