Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

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In terms of genetics, what does the term 'trait' refer to?

A characteristic influenced by the environment
A characteristic influenced by genetics
A random mutation in the gene
A specific location on a chromosome

The correct answer is: A characteristic influenced by genetics

The term 'trait' in the context of genetics specifically refers to a characteristic that is influenced by genetic factors. Traits can encompass a wide variety of characteristics, such as physical attributes like eye color or height, as well as other features that can be determined by an individual's genetic makeup. In genetics, traits arise from the expression of genes, which are segments of DNA that code for specific proteins or functions within an organism. While the environment can certainly affect the expression of a trait (for example, nutrition can impact growth), the foundational aspect of a trait is its genetic basis. Traits can be inherited from parents to offspring, showcasing the direct linkage to one's genetic information. This definition sets 'traits' apart from other concepts like random mutations or chromosomal locations, which do not inherently define a characteristic but rather describe processes or structures involved in genetics. Therefore, understanding traits as genetically influenced characteristics is essential in the study of heredity and biological diversity.