Phases of Meiosis and Chromosome Structure

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to the phases of meiosis and chromosome structure.

Magnification

The process of enlarging the appearance of an object in microscopy.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle where the cell prepares for division.

Prophase I

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

Synapsis

The alignment of homologous chromosomes side by side during prophase I.

Tetrad

A structure containing four chromatids formed by the pairing of two homologous chromosomes.

Alleles

Different versions of a gene that homologous chromosomes can carry.

Homologous Chromosomes

Chromosome pairs that are similar in shape, size, and gene content but may have different alleles.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, creating four haploid cells.

Anaphase I

The stage in meiosis I where homologous chromosomes are pulled apart to opposite poles.

Telophase II

The final stage of meiosis II where the nuclear membranes reform around each set of chromosomes.

Prophase II

The stage of meiosis II where chromosomes condense and spindle fibers form.

Metaphase II

The stage in meiosis II where chromosomes line up at the metaphase plate.

Anaphase II

The stage in meiosis II where sister chromatids are pulled apart.

Telophase I

The stage in meiosis I where nuclear membranes form around the two sets of chromosomes.