allelesdifferent

Alleles are different versions of the same gene. Genes are segments of DNA that code for specific traits, and alleles represent the variations in these segments. For example, a gene that determines eye color might have different alleles for blue eyes, brown eyes, or green eyes. When an organism inherits genetic material from two parents, it receives two alleles for each gene, one from each parent. These alleles can be the same or different. If the two alleles are identical, the individual is homozygous for that gene. If the two alleles are different, the individual is heterozygous. The interaction of these alleles determines the observable trait, known as the phenotype. Some alleles are dominant, meaning their trait will be expressed even if only one copy is present. Other alleles are recessive, and their trait will only be expressed if both copies are recessive. The study of alleles and their inheritance patterns is a fundamental aspect of genetics and helps explain the diversity of life.