Cellular Reproduction Flashcards

These flashcards cover key concepts related to cellular reproduction, including definitions, processes, and comparisons between mitosis and meiosis.

What is an oocyte?

An immature female gamete or egg cell.

What are the differences between somatic cells and germ cells?

Somatic cells are any body cells that are not gametes, while germ cells are reproductive cells that give rise to gametes.

What does 2n represent in terms of chromosomes?

2n represents a diploid number of chromosomes, indicating two sets, one from each parent.

What does 1n represent in terms of chromosomes?

1n represents a haploid number of chromosomes, indicating a single set.

What does the term homologous chromosomes refer to?

Chromosomes that are similar in shape, size, and genetic content, one inherited from each parent.

What cellular process results in the formation of two identical daughter cells?

Mitosis.

What are sister chromatids?

Duplicated chromosomes that are joined together at the centromere.

What is the main difference between mitosis and meiosis?

Mitosis produces two genetically identical cells, while meiosis results in four genetically diverse gametes.

What is the role of the spindle apparatus during cell division?

It helps segregate the chromosomes into the daughter cells.

What occurs during prophase of mitosis?

Chromosomes condense, the nuclear envelope degrades, and spindle fibers begin to form.

What are the four phases of mitosis?

Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase.

What is cytokinesis?

The process where the cytoplasm divides to form two daughter cells after mitosis or meiosis.

Define the term 'gametes'.

Haploid reproductive cells formed through meiosis, such as sperm and egg cells.

What is the significance of crossing over during meiosis?

It allows for genetic recombination, increasing genetic diversity in offspring.

What does the term 'diploid' mean?

A cell that has two complete sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.

What happens during anaphase I of meiosis?

Homologous chromosomes are separated and move to opposite poles of the cell.

What is the outcome of meiosis II?

Separation of sister chromatids, resulting in four haploid cells.

What are polar bodies?

The small cells produced during oogenesis that do not develop into eggs.

What is the synaptonemal complex?

The structure that forms between homologous chromosomes during prophase I of meiosis, facilitating crossing over.

What is the difference between homologous and heterologous chromosomes?

Homologous chromosomes are paired chromosomes from each parent, while heterologous chromosomes come from different pairs.

What is leptonema in meiosis?

The stage where chromosomes begin to condense during prophase I.

What does the term 'euchromatin' refer to?

A less condensed form of chromatin that is transcriptionally active.

What is the function of ribosomes in a cell?

Ribosomes synthesize proteins by translating messenger RNA.