A genome is the complete set of genetic material in an organism. It contains all the information needed for growth, development, and functioning. This genetic blueprint is made up of DNA, which is organized into structures called chromosomes. Each species has a unique genome, which helps determine its traits and characteristics. In humans, the genome consists of about 20,000 to 25,000 genes, which are segments of DNA that code for proteins. Scientists study genomes to understand diseases, evolution, and how different organisms interact with their environment. This field of study is known as genomics and has many applications in medicine and agriculture.