Cell Cycle and Division - Meiosis Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards for reviewing key terms related to meiosis.

Gamete

A sex cell (sperm or egg/ovum)

Fertilization

The process by which the nucleus of a male gamete (sperm cell) fuses with the nucleus of a female gamete (egg/ovum cell) to form a zygote.

Zygote

The cell formed by the union of two gametes; the product of fertilization.

Diploid (2n)

A cell containing two sets of chromosomes (one pair).

Somatic cells

Body cells; diploid.

Haploid (n)

A cell containing half the number of chromosomes; found in sex cells (gametes).

Homologous Chromosomes

A pair of chromosomes that carry the same genes but are not genetically identical; one comes from mom and one comes from dad.

Tetrad

Two chromatids (sister chromatids) after DNA replication before cell division, held together by a synapsis.

Synapsis

The pairing of homologous chromosomes during prophase I of meiosis.

Meiosis

The division of the nucleus in gametes; occurs twice to reduce chromosome numbers, resulting in haploid cells and ensuring genetic variation.

Crossing Over

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

Metaphase Plate

The cell equator where tetrads (homologous chromosomes) line up during metaphase I.

Genetic Variation

Variation in the genes of offspring that helps ensure that offspring are not identical to their parents; important in the long-term survival of a species.