Biology is one of the core subjects you will be tested on in the JAMB UTME. In particular, the topics of genetics and evolution are vital areas that you should focus on to excel in your exam. This article aims to provide a thorough understanding of these core concepts in JAMB Biology, along with tips and resources that can help you master the subject.
Understanding Genetics
Genetics is the study of heredity and variation in living organisms. It is a branch of biology that deals with the genes, genetic variation, and heredity in organisms.
Basic Concepts:
1. Genes: Units of heredity that carry information from one generation to the next. They are sections of DNA located on chromosomes.
2. Chromosomes: Structures made of DNA that carry the genetic code in cells.
3. DNA: Deoxyribonucleic acid, the molecule that contains the genetic instructions for the development, functioning, growth, and reproduction of all known living organisms.
4. Alleles: Different forms of a gene that can exist at a specific locus.
5. Genotype and Phenotype: Genotype refers to the genetic constitution of an organism, while phenotype is the observable characteristic or trait of an organism.
Mendelian Genetics: Gregor Mendel, known as the father of genetics, discovered the basic principles of heredity through experiments with pea plants. His laws include the Law of Segregation and the Law of Independent Assortment.
Advanced Topics:
1. Polygenic Inheritance: Traits controlled by multiple genes.
2. Codominance and Incomplete Dominance: Types of genetic inheritance that differ from simple dominant-recessive relationships.
Evolution
Evolution is the process by which different kinds of living organisms are thought to have developed and diversified from earlier forms during the history of the earth.
Key Concepts:
1. Natural Selection: Charles Darwin's theory that organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring. The theory is often summarized by the phrase "survival of the fittest."
2. Speciation: The formation of new and distinct species in the course of evolution.
3. Adaptive Radiation: The diversification of a group of organisms into forms filling different ecological niches.
4. Genetic Drift: Random changes in the frequency of alleles in a gene pool, often having more noticeable effects in small populations.
Importance in JAMB Examination:
Understanding the principles of genetics and evolution is crucial, as they frequently appear in the JAMB Biology questions. Ensure you are familiar with various genetic crosses, graphical representations of inheritance, and examples of natural selection.
For comprehensive study materials, visit our lesson notes section. Additionally, to practice with past questions and enhance your understanding, check out our JAMB past questions repository.
Leverage these resources and deepen your grasp of the subject using the Green Bridge CBT mobile app for anytime, anywhere learning.
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