Cell Division and Genetics Review

These flashcards cover critical terms and definitions pertaining to cell division, genetics, and inheritance.

Cell Division

The process by which a parent cell divides into two or more daughter cells.

Asexual Reproduction

A type of reproduction that creates offspring identical to the parent, involving only one parent cell.

Sexual Reproduction

Involves the combination of genetic material from two parents, leading to offspring with genetic variation.

Binary Fission

A form of asexual reproduction in prokaryotes where a single cell divides into two equal parts.

Cell Cycle

An ordered sequence of events in the life of a cell from formation to division.

Mitosis

The phase of the cell cycle where duplicated chromosomes are separated into two nuclei.

Cytokinesis

The process of cytoplasmic division which occurs at the end of mitosis, resulting in two daughter cells.

Diploid

Cells that contain two sets of homologous chromosomes.

Haploid

Cells that contain a single set of chromosomes, such as eggs and sperm.

Karyotype

A photographic inventory of an individual's chromosomes, used to detect chromosomal abnormalities.

Pleiotropy

When one gene influences multiple phenotypic traits.

Codominance

A genetic scenario in which both alleles in a heterozygote are fully expressed.

Independent Assortment

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

Nondisjunction

The failure of homologous chromosomes or sister chromatids to separate properly during cell division.

Growth Factors

Signals that influence the cell cycle control system and promote cellular division.

Genotype

The genetic makeup of an individual, consisting of the alleles inherited from the parents.

Phenotype

The observable characteristics of an organism, influenced by its genotype and environment.

Allele

Different versions of a gene that determine specific traits.

Punnett Square

A tool used to predict the genotype and phenotype combinations of a genetic cross.

Linkage Map

A genetic map based on the frequency of recombination between markers.

Crossing Over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis.

Cancer

A condition characterized by uncontrolled cell division, leading to the formation of malignant tumors.

Abnormal Chromosome Numbers

Can result from nondisjunction, leading to conditions like Down syndrome.