The Eukaryotic Cell Cycle, Mitosis, and Meiosis

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the Eukaryotic Cell Cycle, Mitosis, and Meiosis.

Eukaryotic Cell Cycle

A highly regulated series of events involving cell growth and division, where every cell originates from another cell.

Mitotic Cell Division

The process where a single cell divides to produce two genetically identical daughter cells, involving mitosis plus cytokinesis.

Meiosis

A two-round process of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing haploid cells from a diploid cell.

Homologous Chromosomes

Pairs of chromosomes that are nearly identical in size and genetic composition, one from each parent.

Sister Chromatids

Two identical copies of a single chromosome connected at a centromere, produced during DNA replication.

Checkpoint

Regulatory points in the cell cycle that determine if conditions are favorable for division and if the DNA is intact.

Cytokinesis

The division of the cytoplasm, following mitosis, resulting in two daughter cells. Different in animal and plant cells.

Bivalent or Tetrad

A paired structure of homologous chromosomes that form during meiosis, involving synapsis.

Crossing Over

The physical exchange of chromosome pieces between homologous chromosomes during meiosis, increasing genetic variation.

Metaphase Plate

The plane in a dividing cell where chromosomes align during metaphase for separation.

Chiasma

The point where two homologous non-sister chromatids exchange genetic material during crossing over.

Centriole

Cylindrical structures in animal cells that help organize microtubules during cell division, forming the mitotic spindle.

Mitotic Spindle

A structure made of microtubules that organizes and separates the chromosomes during mitosis.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle when the cell is not dividing, consisting of G1, S, and G2 phases.