Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam Practice 2026 – Comprehensive Prep

The correct choice identifies the comprehensive terminology used to describe alleles within the context of genetics. Alleles are different versions of a gene that are found at the same locus on homologous chromosomes. They can be classified as dominant or recessive based on their expression in heterozygous conditions.

Furthermore, the characteristics of homozygous alleles, which consist of two identical alleles for a trait, and heterozygous alleles, which involve two different alleles, are also encompassed within this definition. The mention of both homozygous (same alleles) and heterozygous (different alleles) emphasizes the variability of genetic expression. This terminology reflects the foundational principles of inheritance in genetics, showcasing how traits can be expressed based on the combinations of alleles present.

In contrast, the other choices either limit the scope of alleles or provide inaccurate definitions, thus failing to encompass the complete meaning of alleles in genetic terminology.