DNA and Cell Division Concepts

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to DNA, RNA, and the processes of mitosis and meiosis.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic Acid, the molecule that carries the genetic instructions for life.

RNA

Ribonucleic Acid, a molecule involved in the coding, decoding, regulation, and expression of genes.

Nucleotide

The basic building block of DNA and RNA, consisting of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

DNA Nucleotides

Deoxyadenosine, Deoxycytidine, Deoxyguanosine, Deoxythymidine.

RNA Nucleotides

Adenosine, Cytidine, Guanosine, Uridine.

Replication

The process of copying the DNA molecule, involving enzymes like DNA polymerase.

Transcription

The process of synthesizing RNA from a DNA template, involving RNA polymerase.

Translation

The decoding of mRNA to synthesize proteins, primarily performed by ribosomes.

Codon

A sequence of three nucleotides in mRNA that codes for a specific amino acid.

Anticodon

A sequence of three nucleotides in tRNA that pairs with the corresponding codon in mRNA.

Mutations

Changes in the DNA sequence that can affect mRNA and protein synthesis, including point mutations, insertions, and deletions.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle where the cell prepares for mitosis or meiosis.

Mitosis

The process of cell division that results in two identical daughter cells.

Meiosis

The process of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in gametes.

Sister Chromatids

Identical copies of a chromosome connected by a centromere.

Homologous Chromosomes

Pairs of chromosomes that contain the same genes but may have different alleles.

Crossing Over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis.

Independent Assortment

The random distribution of chromosomes during meiosis.

Gamete

A reproductive cell (sperm or egg) that carries half the genetic information.

Zygote

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