Chromosomes, Mitoses, and Meiosis

What are genes?

Sequences of DNA that encode products used by the cell

What is a locus?

It is the specific location on a specific chromosome where genes are found

True or False: All individuals of a species have the same haploid number

True

What are the 4 differences between Prokaryotic vs. Eukaryotic genomes?

Prokaryotic: 1) no nucleus, 2) n=1 3) circular chromosome 4) 0.6- 10Mbp (shorter)

Eukaryotic 1) DNA confined to nucleus, 2) n>1 3) linear chromosome 4) 2.9 - 4000+ Mbp (longer)

NOTE: Mbp → Mega base pairs

Where is the genome found in prokaryotic cells

Within 1 chromosome

Describe Binary Fission

(On notes) wk1

What is a karyotype? How many are in humans?

An individual’s complete set of chromosomes

46 chromosomes/ 23 pairs in humans

In eukaryotes, what is the best phase to distinguish chromosomes?

Metaphase

What is the centromere?

The pinched part that holds the chromatids together and the attachment point for microtubules.

NOTE: it is also important in guiding cell division

What is the p-arm?

The shorter part of the chromosome extending from the centromere

What is the q-arm?

The longer part of the chromosome extending from the centromere

What is the telomere?

Specific DNA sequences and proteins at the tips of chromosomes. They also aid in protecting and stabilizing the ends

Describe where the centromere is on a metacentric, submetacentric, acrocentric, and telocentric chromosomes.

Metacentric: in the middle

Submetacentric: slightly off-center

Acrocentric: near the tip

Telocentric: at the end