Cell Cycle

Unit 9 Cell Cycle

Prokaryote

A simple, unicellular organism that lacks a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Binary Fission

A type of asexual reproduction in prokaryotes where the DNA is copied and the cell divides into two identical cells.

Chromosome

Rod-shaped structures made of DNA and protein.

Histone

A protein that helps maintain the shape of a chromosome and aids in packing DNA.

Chromatid

An identical half of a duplicated chromosome.

Centromere

The point where two chromatids are attached together in a chromosome.

Chromatin

Uncoiled DNA that is accessible for reading and directing cell activities.

Diploid

A cell that has two homologous chromosomes, represented as 2n.

Haploid

A cell that has one copy of chromosomes, represented as n.

Somatic Cells

Body cells that are diploid and contain two homologous chromosomes.

Gametes

Haploid reproductive cells (sperm and egg) involved in sexual reproduction.

Mitosis

A type of cell division that results in two identical daughter cells.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, forming gametes.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle where the cell grows and DNA is synthesized before division.

Prophase

The first phase of mitosis where the chromosomes condense and the nuclear envelope breaks down.

Metaphase

The phase of mitosis where chromosomes line up at the cell's equator.

Anaphase

The stage in mitosis where sister chromatids separate and move to opposite poles of the cell.

Telophase

The final phase of mitosis where the chromosomes reach opposite poles and the cell begins to divide.

Cytokinesis

The process during cell division where the cytoplasm divides, forming two daughter cells.

Crossing-over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during prophase I of meiosis.

Genetic Variation

Differences in DNA among individuals, which arise from recombination and independent assortment during meiosis.