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Mitosis

A process of cell division that results in two identical daughter cells, both with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell.

Meiosis

A two-round process of cell division that produces four haploid daughter cells, each with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell.

Diploid (2n)

Cells that contain two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.

Haploid (1n)

Cells that contain one set of chromosomes, as seen in gametes.

Fertilization

The union of two haploid sex cells, resulting in a diploid zygote.

Homologous chromosomes

Chromosome pairs, one from each parent, that are similar in shape, size, and genetic content.

Alleles

Different versions of a gene that can exist at the same locus on homologous chromosomes.

Crossing over

The exchange of genetic material between non-sister chromatids during prophase I of meiosis, contributing to genetic variation.

Chiasma (plural: chiasmata)

The site of crossing over where homologous chromosomes are joined during prophase I.

Independent assortment

The random orientation of homologous chromosome pairs during metaphase I, leading to genetic variation.

Cohesin proteins

Proteins that hold sister chromatids together until anaphase II.

Synaptonemal complex

A protein structure that forms between homologous chromosomes during prophase I, facilitating pairing and recombination.

Reduction division

A type of cell division (specifically meiosis I) that reduces the ploidy level from diploid to haploid.

Gametes

Haploid reproductive cells (sperm and eggs) that fuse during fertilization.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle during which the cell prepares for division, consisting of G1, S, and G2 phases.

Meiosis II

The second meiotic division, similar to mitosis, where sister chromatids separate to form four haploid cells.

Nuclear division

The process during which the cell's nucleus divides, can refer to either mitosis or meiosis.

Non-kinetochore microtubules

Microtubules that do not attach to kinetochores but help in elongating the cell during anaphase.

Tetrads

Structures formed by paired homologous chromosomes during prophase I of meiosis.

Random assortment (of chromosomes)

The random distribution of maternal and paternal chromosomes into gametes during meiosis.