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Edexcel IGCSE Biology · Spec 3.19-3.20

Genetics: Key Words

Key genetics terms you must know — gene, allele, dominant, recessive, genotype and phenotype.

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Genetics: Key Words

Spec 3.19-3.20

What you need to know

  • Understand what alleles are
  • Use the words dominant and recessive
  • Use genotype, phenotype, homozygous and heterozygous

Active recall

Quick check

Answer each question before opening the answer.

Define genotype and phenotype.

Genotype — the alleles an organism has; phenotype — the observable characteristics.

What is the difference between a dominant and a recessive allele?

A dominant allele is expressed with only one copy; a recessive allele is only expressed when two copies are present.

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