Dna, Genes And Chromosomes

What is DNA

DNA is a large molecule made up from many repeating units called nucleotides. DNA is made up of two polypeptide chains which are intertwined together and are held together by hydrogen bonds. DNA is found in every organism and is extremely important as it stores the instructions for making other large molecules such as proteins and also carries the genetic information of the cell.

What is a gene

A gene is a short section of DNA on a chromosome that codes for a specific sequence of amino acids that code for a specific protein. Genes are the unit of hereditary and can be passed on from parent to offspring.

What is a chromosome

Chromosomes are long threads of DNA made up of many genes. Chromosomes in body cells are generally found in pairs One chromosome is inherited from the mother and one chromosome is inherited from the father. The chromosomes in each pair carry the gene in the same location. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes.