CELS191 Lecture 15: Eukaryotic Cell Division - Meiosis

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts related to meiosis and cell division from the CELS191 lecture notes.

Meiosis

A type of cell division in sexually reproducing organisms that results in four genetically distinct haploid cells.

Gametes

Reproductive cells (sperm and egg) that unite during sexual reproduction.

Haploid

Cells that contain a single set of chromosomes (n).

Diploid

Cells that contain two sets of chromosomes (2n).

Crossing Over

The exchange of DNA between non-sister chromatids during prophase I of meiosis.

Chiasmata

The points where homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material during crossing over.

Sister Chromatids

Identical copies of a chromosome, joined together at the centromere.

Mitosis

A type of cell division resulting in two genetically identical diploid daughter cells.

Independent Assortment

The random distribution of homologous chromosomes during meiosis.

Cytokinesis

The process where the cytoplasm of a parental cell divides into two daughter cells.

Synapsis

The pairing of homologous chromosomes during prophase I of meiosis.

Telophase

The final stage of cell division where the chromosomes arrive at the poles and the nuclear envelope re-forms.

Anaphase I

The stage in meiosis I where homologous chromosomes separate and move to opposite poles.

Metaphase I

The stage in meiosis I where homologous chromosomes align at the metaphase plate.

Prophase I

The first stage of meiosis I where chromosomes condense and homologous chromosomes pair up.

Centromere

The region of the chromosome where two sister chromatids are joined together.

Zygote

The fertilized egg that results from the union of sperm and egg.

Genetic Diversity

Variation in the genetic makeup of individuals within a population, crucial for evolution.

Nuclear Envelope

A double membrane that surrounds the nucleus, which disintegrates during prophase.

Cleavage Furrow

The indentation that begins the process of cytokinesis in animal cells.

Phenotypic Plasticity

The ability of an organism to change its phenotype in response to changes in the environment.