Definition

The state of having two different alleles for a particular gene, which can affect traits in an organism.

Example

Heterozygosis can lead to greater genetic diversity in a population.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of heterozygosis?

Yeah, I think it has to do with genetics, right?

Exactly! It's when two different gametes form a zygote.

That's fascinating! I love learning about genetic diversity.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heterozygosis → It is formed from "hetero-" (from Greek "heteros", meaning different) and "zygos" (from Greek, meaning yoke or pair). The term refers to a condition in which an organism has two different alleles for a particular gene, hence the idea of being yoked or paired with different forms.

Memory Tip

Think of 'different' ('hetero-') paired together ('zygos') — that's why heterozygosis refers to having different alleles paired in genetics.

Visually Confused Words