Definition check: what is genomics? Which field specifically studies the molecular organization of entire genomes, their information content, and the gene products they encode?

Introduction / Context:
As sequencing technologies advanced, a distinct field emerged to handle genome-scale questions: genomics. It goes beyond single genes to study complete DNA content, organization, and encoded products, often integrating high-throughput methods and comparative analyses across organisms.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Scope is entire genomes, not individual genes.
• Includes analysis of gene content, arrangement, and potential functions.
• Considers encoded products (transcripts and proteins) at the systems level.

Concept / Approach:

Genomics addresses the structure, function, evolution, and mapping of genomes. While genetics often focuses on heredity and single-gene traits, and proteomics focuses on protein complements, genomics is centered on the DNA blueprint in toto.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Major initiatives such as the Human Genome Project and microbial genome catalogs are classic genomics endeavors, combining sequencing, mapping, and functional inference at the genome scale.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Genetics: Broader theory of heredity, not necessarily genome-wide analysis.
• Ergonomics: Human factors engineering, irrelevant to genomes.
• Bioinformatics: Computational tools and analyses; supports genomics but is not limited to it.
• Proteomics: Studies proteins, not directly the genome's DNA organization.

Common Pitfalls:

• Using “genetics” and “genomics” interchangeably; genomics implies genome-scale scope.

Final Answer:

Genomics