Sexual Reproduction and Meiosis

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts from the lecture on sexual reproduction and meiosis.

Meiosis

A form of cell division that leads to the production of gametes, containing half the number of chromosomes of an adult body cell.

Gametes

Reproductive cells (eggs and sperm) that are haploid and contain one set of chromosomes.

Diploid

Cells that contain two sets of chromosomes, represented as 2n.

Haploid

Cells that contain one set of chromosomes, represented as 1n.

Fertilization

The process in which two gametes unite to form a zygote.

Zygote

The initial cell formed when two gametes merge during fertilization.

Homologous Chromosomes

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

Synapsis

The association of homologous chromosomes during meiosis.

Crossing Over

The process during synapsis where homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material, leading to new gene combinations.

Chiasmata

The sites of crossing over where homologous chromosomes exchange segments.

Nondisjunction

The failure of chromosomes to separate properly during meiosis, resulting in aneuploid gametes.

Aneuploidy

A condition where a gamete has an abnormal number of chromosomes, which can lead to disorders or spontaneous abortion.