Chapter 10 - Meiosis and Sexual Life Cycles

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts from Chapter 10 on meiosis and sexual life cycles.

Genetics

The scientific study of heredity and variation.

Heredity

The transmission of traits from one generation to the next.

Variation

Demonstrated by the differences in appearance that offspring show from parents and siblings.

Genes

Units of heredity made up of segments of DNA.

Chromosomes

Structures that contain DNA packed in an organized manner.

Locus

The specific location of a gene on a chromosome.

Homologous chromosomes

A pair of identical chromosomes (in length, size, and genetic information).

Karyotype

A display of condensed chromosomes used to screen for defective or abnormal chromosomes.

Meiosis

A reductional division of chromosomes that halves the number of chromosomes.

Asexual reproduction

Reproduction involving one parent that produces genetically identical offspring.

Sexual reproduction

Reproduction involving two parents that increases genetic diversity.

Crossing over

The exchange of genetic material between non-sister chromatids during meiosis.

Independent assortment

The random orientation of chromosomes during metaphase I of meiosis.

Random fertilization

The process where any sperm can fuse with any ovum, contributing to genetic diversity.

Somatic cells

Diploid cells that contain 23 pairs of chromosomes in humans.