2.1.6 Meiosis

Diploid

Cells containing two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent, denoted as 2n.

Haploid

Cells containing a single set of chromosomes, denoted as n.

Gamete

Specialized reproductive cells (sperm and egg) with half the genetic material of a normal cell.

Zygote

The cell formed by the fusion of two gametes during fertilization, having a diploid set of chromosomes.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that produces haploid gametes from diploid cells.

Reduction division

Meiosis, where the number of chromosomes is halved from diploid to haploid.

Homologous chromosomes

Chromosome pairs with genes for the same traits at corresponding loci.

Bivalent

A pair of homologous chromosomes joined together during meiosis.

Crossing over

Exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis.

Chiasma

The point where chromatids exchange genetic material during crossing over.

Recombinant chromatid

Chromatids formed after crossing over, containing a mix of genetic material.

Independent assortment

Random alignment and separation of chromosomes during meiosis.

Genetic variation

Diversity in alleles and gene combinations within a population.

Alternation of generations

Plant life cycle involving both haploid and diploid multicellular stages.

Independent assortment

Random distribution of chromosomes into gametes during meiosis.

Mitosis

Cell division producing two identical daughter cells with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell.