* Gene: A segment of DNA that contains the instructions for building a specific protein or functional RNA molecule.

* Allele: A specific version or variation of a gene. Think of it like a different flavor of the same gene. For example, the gene for eye color might have alleles for blue, brown, or green eyes.

Here's the key:

* You inherit two copies of each gene, one from your mother and one from your father.

* These copies might be the same allele (homozygous) or different alleles (heterozygous).

* The combination of alleles you inherit determines the trait you express (e.g., blue eyes, brown eyes, etc.).

Let me know if you'd like more details or have any other questions!