Overview of Meiosis and Gamete Production

Flashcards covering the key concepts and processes involved in meiosis and gamete production.

What is meiosis?

A type of cell division that reduces the number of chromosomes by half to form gametes.

What are the two main processes of gamete production?

Oogenesis for egg production and spermatogenesis for sperm production.

What happens during prophase I of meiosis?

Crossing over occurs, where DNA is exchanged between homologous chromosomes.

What is independent assortment?

The random distribution of homologous chromosomes during meiosis, contributing to genetic diversity.

What is a diploid zygote?

A fertilized egg that contains two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.

What is nondisjunction?

The failure of homologous chromosomes to separate properly during meiosis.

How many haploid gametes are produced at the end of meiosis?

Four haploid gametes (n) are produced.

What processes contribute to the genetic diversity of gametes?

Crossing over in prophase I, independent assortment during metaphase I, and fertilization.