Definition

1. Noun:
   • (Genetics): A process where genetic material is combined in new arrangements, producing gene combinations not present in the parents. This is a key mechanism for generating genetic variation.
   • (Physics): A process in a gas where positive and negative charges (ions and electrons) combine or neutralize each other, often following ionization by high-energy particles.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Genetics):

  • Genetic recombination during meiosis increases diversity in offspring.
  • Scientists study recombination to understand how traits are inherited.

• Noun (Physics):

  • The recombination of ions and electrons in the plasma created a visible glow.
  • The rate of recombination affects the conductivity of the ionized gas.

Advanced Usage

• "Homologous recombination": A precise genetic exchange between similar DNA sequences.

  • Homologous recombination is a crucial tool for targeted gene editing.

• "Site-specific recombination": Genetic exchange that occurs at specific, short DNA sequences.

  • Bacteriophages often use site-specific recombination to integrate their DNA into a host genome.

Variants and Related Words

• Recombine (verb): To undergo or cause genetic or physical recombination.

  • The DNA fragments can recombine to form a new sequence.

• Recombinant (adjective/noun): (Adj.) Referring to genetic material formed by recombination. (Noun) An organism or cell with such material.

  • Recombinant DNA technology is fundamental to biotechnology.

Synonyms

• Genetic reassortment: (For genetics) The mixing of genetic material, especially in viruses.
• Neutralization: (For physics) The cancellation of positive and negative charges.

Related Phrases

• "Frequency of recombination": A measure used in genetics to map the relative positions of genes on a chromosome.
  • A low frequency of recombination indicates that two genes are located close together on a chromosome.

Noun

1. (genetics) a combining of genes or characters different from what they were in the parents
2. (physics) a combining of charges or transfer of electrons in a gas that results in the neutralization of ions; important for ions arising from the passage of high-energy particles