What do alleles represent in genetics?

Alleles represent two alternative forms of a gene, which are found at the same locus on homologous chromosomes. Each individual inherits one allele from each parent, contributing to the organism's genotype. This genetic variation can lead to different traits being expressed, such as flower color or seed shape in plants. The existence of multiple alleles for a gene enables a population to adapt and evolve over time since different alleles can confer varying advantages in different environmental conditions. Understanding alleles is foundational in genetics, as they are crucial for explaining inheritance patterns and the diversity of traits seen in organisms.