What term refers to the particular set of genes that a person possesses?

The term that describes the particular set of genes that a person possesses is "genotype." This refers to the specific genetic makeup of an individual, encompassing all the inherited alleles and genes that contribute to their biological attributes. The genotype is fundamental in determining the potential traits an individual may express, although the actual expression of those traits can be influenced by environmental factors.

Understanding genotype is crucial because it lays the foundation for the study of heredity and genetics. It helps in exploring how traits are passed from one generation to the next and can offer insights into various health issues or genetic disorders. While phenotype refers to the observable traits influenced by the genotype and the environment, the genotype itself is purely about the genetic blueprint. Chromosomes are structures within cells that contain genetic information, and the genetic code refers to the sequences of nucleotides that dictate how proteins are synthesized, reflecting aspects of genetic information but not specifying the complete set of genes an individual has.