Meiosis and Genetic Variation

Flashcards covering key concepts related to meiosis and genetic variation, including definitions and differences between meiosis and mitosis.

Meiosis I

Separates homologous chromosomes and includes crossing over, leading to genetic mixing.

Crossing over

The process where homologous chromosomes exchange DNA segments, resulting in new gene combinations.

Independent assortment

The random arrangement of chromosomes during meiosis, each gamete gets a different mix of maternal and paternal chromosomes.

Random fertilization

The concept that any sperm can fertilize any egg, resulting in numerous possible genetic outcomes.

Meiosis II

Separates sister chromatids, resulting in four unique haploid cells.

Genetic variability

The variation in genetic traits resulting from independent assortment, crossing over, and random fertilization in sexually reproducing organisms.

Mitosis

A process involving one division that produces two identical diploid cells used for growth and repair.

Differences between Meiosis and Mitosis

Meiosis involves two divisions and produces four unique haploid cells, while mitosis involves one division and produces two identical diploid cells.

Diploid and haploid

Diploid refers to cells containing two sets of chromosomes, while haploid refers to cells containing one set of chromosomes.