Chapter 5 - Chromosomes and Cell Divison 002

Cell Division

The formation of new cells from preexisting cells, which provides for growth, repair, and reproduction.

Asexual Reproduction

A type of reproduction that only requires one parent and produces genetically identical offspring without gametes.

Gametes

Sex cells (sperm and egg) that are haploid and contain only one copy of each chromosome.

Chromosomes

Long strands of DNA located in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells, containing genetic information.

Mitosis

The process of nuclear division during the mitotic phase that results in two genetically identical offspring cells.

Meiosis

A special type of cell division that produces gametes, resulting in four haploid cells.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle where the cell performs normal functions and duplicates its chromosomes.

DNA

The genetic material in all living organisms that contains the information necessary for growth, development, and functioning.

Sister Chromatids

Duplicated chromosomes that are joined at the centromere, preparing for cell division.

Crossing Over

A process during meiosis where homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material, leading to genetic variation.

Independent Assortment

The random distribution of maternal and paternal chromosomes during meiosis, contributing to genetic diversity.

Cytokinesis

The final step in cell division that involves the division of the cytoplasm, resulting in the formation of two daughter cells.

Karyotypes

Photographic inventories of chromosomes organized in homologous pairs, used to determine sex and chromosomal abnormalities.

Diploid

A cell that contains two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.

Haploid

A cell that contains one set of chromosomes, typical of gametes.

Chromatin

The material of which the chromosomes of organisms other than bacteria are composed, consisting of DNA and proteins.