Comprehensive Study Notes on DNA Replication, Cell Division, Sexual Reproduction, and Patterns of Inheritance

A comprehensive set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts in DNA replication, cell division, sexual reproduction, and genetic inheritance.

DNA Replication

The process of making an identical copy of DNA before cell division.

Semiconservative Replication

Each new DNA molecule consists of one parental strand and one daughter strand.

Binary Fission

A method of asexual reproduction in prokaryotes, where the cell divides into two genetically identical daughter cells.

Mitosis

Eukaryotic cell division that produces two genetically identical diploid daughter cells.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle where the cell grows and duplicates its DNA.

G1 Phase

The first phase of interphase where the cell grows and performs normal functions.

S Phase

The phase of the cell cycle in which DNA replication occurs.

G2 Phase

The second growth phase of interphase, focusing on preparation for mitosis.

Prophase

The first stage of mitosis where chromosomes condense and spindle fibers form.

Metaphase

The stage of mitosis where chromosomes align along the cell equator.

Anaphase

The stage of mitosis where sister chromatids separate and move toward opposite poles.

Telophase

The final stage of mitosis where nuclear envelopes reform and chromosomes decondense.

Cytokinesis

The process of cytoplasm division that results in two daughter cells.

Checkpoints

Regulatory mechanisms in the cell cycle that monitor DNA damage and ensure proper progression.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death that eliminates damaged or unnecessary cells.

Homologous Chromosomes

Chromosome pairs, one from each parent, that carry genes for the same traits.

Diploid Cells

Cells containing two sets of chromosomes (2n), one from each parent.

Haploid Cells

Cells that contain one set of chromosomes (n), such as gametes.

Crossing Over

The exchange of chromosomal segments between homologous chromosomes during Prophase I of meiosis.

Independent Assortment

The random alignment of homologous chromosomes during Metaphase I, contributing to genetic diversity.

Nondisjunction

The failure of chromosomes to separate properly during meiosis, leading to abnormal chromosome numbers.

Genotype

The genetic makeup of an individual for a specific gene.

Phenotype

The observable traits expressed by the genotype.

Alleles

Different versions of the same gene found at the same locus on homologous chromosomes.

Law of Segregation

The principle stating that allele pairs separate during gamete formation.

Law of Independent Assortment

The principle that alleles of different genes assort independently during gamete formation.

Dominant Allele

An allele that produces its trait in the heterozygous condition.

Recessive Allele

An allele that is masked by the presence of a dominant allele.

Punnett Square

A chart used to predict the genotypes and phenotypes of offspring from parental genotypes.

Codominance

A form of inheritance where both alleles are fully expressed in the heterozygote.

Epistasis

A genetic interaction where one gene's product affects the expression of another gene.

Sex-Linked Traits

Traits associated with genes located on the sex chromosomes.

X-Inactivation

The process in females where one X chromosome is randomly silenced to balance gene dosage.

Environmental Influence

The impact of external factors on gene expression and phenotype.

Polygenic Traits

Traits influenced by multiple genes working together, resulting in continuous variation.