Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

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What is a gene defined as?

Segment of RNA
Segment of DNA that functions as a unit
Protein coding sequence
Segment of a chromosome

The correct answer is: Segment of DNA that functions as a unit

A gene is defined as a segment of DNA that functions as a unit. This definition encompasses the essential role genes play in heredity and the regulation of biological processes. Each gene contains the information needed to produce specific proteins or RNA molecules, which are crucial for various functions within an organism. Genes are located on chromosomes and are responsible for inherited traits, functioning as the basic units of heredity. When a gene is expressed, it generally involves the transcription of DNA into messenger RNA, followed by translation into proteins. Therefore, while options regarding RNA, protein coding, and chromosome segments touch on different aspects of genetics, the most accurate and encompassing definition of a gene is the one that identifies it as a functional unit of DNA.