Chapter 1
Welcome to Genetics: What’s What and Who’s Who
IN THIS CHAPTER
Defining the subject of genetics and its various subdivisions
A brief introduction to what is covered in this book
A review of some of the possible career opportunities in genetics
Welcome to the complex and fascinating world of genetics. Genetics is all about physical traits and the DNA code that supplies the building plans for any organism. This chapter defines the field of genetics and explains what geneticists do. You get an introduction to the big picture and a glimpse at some of the details found in other chapters of this book.
What Is Genetics?
Genetics is the field of science that examines how traits are passed from one generation to the next. Simply put, genetics affects everything about every living thing on earth. An organism’s genes are segments of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) that are the fundamental units of heredity. Genes play an essential role in how the organism looks, behaves, and reproduces. Because all biology depends on genes, understanding genetics as a foundation for all other life sciences, including agriculture and medicine, is critical.
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