second

Gene

A segment of DNA on a chromosome that codes for a specific trait

homologous chromosomes

Chromosomes that have the same sequence of genes, that have the same structure, and that pair during meiosis.

Gamete

specialized cell involved in sexual reproduction

Haploid

An organism or cell having only one complete set of chromosomes.

Diploid

containing two complete sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.

Fertilization

Process in sexual reproduction in which male and female reproductive cells join to form a new cell

Meiosis

Cell division that produces reproductive cells in sexually reproducing organisms

Crossing Over

Process in which homologous chromosomes exchange portions of their genetic material during meiosis to increase potential variation in the offspring.

4

The number of haploid cells produced at the end of meiosis

46

The number of chromosomes in a diploid human cell (body cells)

23

number of chromosomes in a human gamete (sex cell)