1. Let's begin with a review of several terms that you may already know. Define: gene: locus: gamete: male gamete: female gamete: asexual reproduction: sexual reproduction:

Here are the definitions for the terms you've requested: 1. **Gene**: A gene is a segment of DNA that contains the instructions for building a specific protein or set of proteins. Genes are the basic units of heredity and are responsible for the traits and characteristics of an organism. 2. **Locus**: A locus (plural: loci) is the specific physical location of a gene or other significant sequence on a chromosome. It is often used to refer to the position of a gene in relation to other genes on the chromosome. 3. **Gamete**: A gamete is a reproductive cell that carries half the genetic information of an organism. In sexually reproducing organisms, gametes are involved in the process of fertilization, leading to the formation of a zygote. 4. **Male Gamete**: The male gamete is the sperm cell in animals. It is typically motile and is responsible for fertilizing the female gamete (egg) during sexual reproduction. 5. **Female Gamete**: The female gamete is the egg cell (ovum) in animals. It is usually larger than the male gamete and contains the necessary nutrients for the early development of the zygote after fertilization. 6. **Asexual Reproduction**: Asexual reproduction is a mode of reproduction that involves a single organism or cell dividing to produce offspring that are genetically identical to the parent. This process does not involve the fusion of gametes and can occur through methods such as binary fission, budding, or vegetative propagation. 7. **Sexual Reproduction**: Sexual reproduction is a biological process that involves the combination of genetic material from two parent organisms, typically through the fusion of male and female gametes. This process results in offspring that have genetic variation, as they inherit a mix of traits from both parents.