Meiosis

what is meiosis?

A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing four haploid cells from one diploid cell, essential for sexual reproduction. Happens at gonads at sexual maturity (adult)

What is the relationship between DNA, chromosomes, and genes?

DNA is the molecule that carries genetic information, chromosomes are structures made of DNA that contain genes, which are segments of DNA that code for proteins.

What are homologous chromosomes?

Pairs of chromosomes that have the same structure and gene sequence, one inherited from each parent.

What are non-sister chromatids?

Pairs of chromosomes that have the same structure and gene sequence, one inherited from each parent

What is ploidy?

The number of sets of chromosomes in a cell; diploid (2n) has two sets, while haploid (n) has one set.

What is an autosome?

Any chromosome that is not a sex chromosome; humans have 22 pairs of autosomes.

What is a sex chromosome?

Chromosomes that determine the sex of an individual; in humans, these are X and Y chromosomes.

What is an allele?

Different versions of the same gene that can produce variations in traits.

What is a somatic cell?

Any cell of the body that is not a gamete; somatic cells are diploid.

What is a germ cell?

A reproductive cell that can develop into a gamete; germ cells are haploid

What are gametes?

Reproductive cells (sperm and eggs) that are haploid and fuse during fertilization.

What is synapsis?

The pairing of homologous chromosomes during meiosis, allowing for genetic recombination.

What is a chiasma?

The point where two homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material during meiosis.

What is recombination?

The process by which genetic material is exchanged between homologous chromosomes during meiosis, leading to genetic diversity.

What is independent assortment?

The random distribution of homologous chromosomes to the gametes during meiosis, contributing to genetic variation.

What is a diploid cell?

A cell that contains two complete sets of chromosomes, one from each parent. 2 copies of every chromosome

What is a haploid cell?

A cell that contains only one set of chromosomes, typical of gametes. One copy of chromosomes.

What is a karyotype?

Visualization of all chromosomes in a cell

What is a tetrad?

a pair of homologous chromosomes held together by synaptonemal complex

What is crossing over?

the exchange of genes between homologous chromosomes, resulting in a mixture of parental characteristics in offspring.

How does meiosis create genetic diversity?

recombination produces new combinations of alleles within a single chromosome, and independent assortment produces new combinations of alleles by mixing chromosomes from both parents in daughter cells