Eukaryotic Chromosomes and Cell Cycle

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key concepts related to eukaryotic chromosomes, their structure, function, and the processes of cell division.

Eukaryotic Chromosomes

Chromosomes in eukaryotic cells consist of DNA wrapped around histone proteins, organized into nucleosomes.

Chromatin

The complex of DNA and associated proteins that form chromosomes.

Karyotype

A photographic profile of a person's chromosomes, organized by size.

Autosomes

Chromosomes that do not determine the sex of an individual.

Sex Chromosomes

Chromosomes that determine the sex of an individual, typically XX for female and XY for male.

Diploid Cells

Cells that contain two sets of each chromosome (2n), such as human somatic cells with 46 chromosomes.

Haploid Cells

Cells that contain one set of each chromosome (n), such as human gametes with 23 chromosomes.

Alternation of Generations

The life cycle of organisms, involving meiosis to produce haploid gametes and fertilization to form diploid zygotes.

Homologous Chromosomes

Pairs of chromosomes that consist of one paternal and one maternal chromosome, sharing the same length, centromere location, and gene sequences.

Sister Chromatids

Identical copies of a chromosome formed during DNA replication, visible as 'X' shapes during cell division.

Cell Cycle

The series of phases (Interphase, Mitosis, Cytokinesis) through which a cell goes as it grows and divides.

Interphase

The longest phase of the cell cycle where the cell prepares for division, during which chromosomes are not visible.

Synthesis Phase

The phase of Interphase in which DNA replication occurs, resulting in two sister chromatids for each chromosome.