What is a gene? (1 point)
O a point that joins two halves of a chromosome
a large molecule that performs a specific function
O a structure that contains many chromosomes
O a section of DNA that encodes a specific protein
a section of DNA that encodes a specific protein
A gene is a section of DNA that encodes a specific protein.
The correct answer is: a section of DNA that encodes a specific protein.
To understand what a gene is, we need to know that DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is the genetic material that carries the instructions for building and maintaining living organisms. Genes are sections of DNA that contain the instructions for making specific proteins. Proteins are fundamental molecules that perform various functions in our bodies, such as aiding in cell structure, metabolism, and carrying out specific tasks.
To identify the correct answer, we need to understand the role of genes. Option A, "a point that joins two halves of a chromosome," does not accurately describe a gene's function. Option B, "a large molecule that performs a specific function," is a broader definition that could apply to several biological molecules, not specifically genes. Option C, "a structure that contains many chromosomes," is incorrect because chromosomes contain genes, rather than the other way around.
Option D, "a section of DNA that encodes a specific protein," is the correct answer because it accurately describes the function and purpose of genes. Genes contain the instructions for building proteins, and their specific sequences of nucleotides (the building blocks of DNA) determine the order and structure of the proteins they encode.