Entity: GENETICS
Genetics is the study of heredity and variation in organisms, focusing on how traits are passed down from one generation to the next through genes.
GENETICS
Etymology
The term 'genetics' is derived from the Greek word 'genetikos,' meaning 'genitive' or 'generative.' It was first coined by William Bateson in 1905.
Definition
Genetics is a branch of biology that deals with the heredity and variation of organisms, studying how qualities and characteristics are passed on from one generation to another by means of genes.
Historical Context
The field of genetics has evolved significantly since Gregor Mendel's experiments with pea plants in the 19th century. Modern genetics encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including molecular genetics, population genetics, and epigenetics.
Cultural Significance
Genetics plays a crucial role in understanding inherited diseases, genetic disorders, and evolutionary processes. It has also revolutionized fields such as medicine, agriculture, and forensics.
Related Concepts
- Heredity
- DNA
- Gene expression
- Genetic engineering
See Also
- Gregor Mendel
- DNA sequencing
- Human Genome Project
A branch of biology that deals with the heredity and variation of organisms, studying how qualities and characteristics are passed on from one generation to another by means of genes.