The chemical basis of genetic inheritance lies in the structure and function of DNA. DNA consists of nucleotides arranged in a specific sequence that encodes genetic information. Genes, which are segments of DNA, dictate the traits and characteristics passed from parents to offspring through replication during cell division. This hereditary process is governed by the principles of inheritance, including dominance, recessiveness, and independent assortment. Understanding this basis is fundamental for studying biology, evolution, and genetics.