Advanced Placement (AP) Biology Practice Exam

What is the definition of a genome?

1. A single chromosome set

2. The complete set of genes or genetic material

3. The specific sequence of nucleotides in DNA

4. The collection of proteins in a cell

The correct answer is: The complete set of genes or genetic material

The definition of a genome refers to the complete set of genes or genetic material present in an organism. This includes all the DNA, both coding and non-coding regions, that constitutes the genetic blueprint for that organism. A genome encompasses all the information necessary for the growth, development, functioning, and reproduction of the organism. Understanding the genome is foundational to many fields of biology, including genetics, molecular biology, and bioinformatics, as it provides insight into how traits are inherited, how organisms evolve, and how they respond to their environments. The genome plays a crucial role in determining the characteristics of an organism and influences various biological processes. This concept is broader than just a single chromosome set or a specific segment of DNA, as it includes all genetic material across all chromosomes. Thus, the assertion that a genome is the complete set of genes or genetic material is accurate and encompasses the totality of hereditary information an organism possesses.