Question

Explain how,characteristic are inherited through genes.

Answer 1

Each gene that you have accounts for a certain characteristic (eg, brown eyes) that you display. You have 23 pairs of chromosomes (46 total) so therefore, you have two of each kind of each gene, which are called alleles. So, if you have brown eyes, you have a brown allele, but you also have a second allele. This could be another brown allele, but it could also be a blue allele. The brown is dominant, so that's the one that would be expressed.

Your gametes (sex cells) have only 23 chromosomes apiece. When one of these sex cells is invovled in conception, the two sex cells each have 23 chromosomes that bring in 46 total. Now, you have just gotten two alleles for eye color (among other things) from each parent. You've inherited a blue allele and a brown allele, the brown will be expressed, because it is dominant.