Question

question 1 of 10
which statement best describes what it means when a gene is expressed?
a. the gene produces all traits and functions within the cell.
b. the gene is duplicated so it can be passed on to future cells.
c. the gene that codes for the production of a protein is turned on.
d. the gene is expelled from the cell when it is no longer needed.

Explanation:

Gene expression refers to the process by which the information in a gene is used to synthesize a functional gene product, typically a protein. When a gene is expressed, the gene that codes for the production of a protein is "turned on" - meaning the processes of transcription (making mRNA from DNA) and translation (making protein from mRNA) occur.

• Option A is incorrect because a single gene does not produce all traits and functions within a cell. Traits and functions are the result of multiple genes and their interactions.
• Option B describes DNA replication (duplication of DNA before cell division) rather than gene expression.
• Option D is not what gene expression is about. Gene expression is about activation to produce a product (like a protein), not expelling the gene from the cell.

Answer:

C. The gene that codes for the production of a protein is turned on.