Meiosis And Chromosomes

Allele

Different version of a gene that determines specific traits, like eye or hair color.

Asexual Reproduction

Process where one organism produces offspring without another parent, creating genetically identical copies.

Cell Cycle

Series of stages a cell goes through as it grows, copies its DNA, and divides into two new cells.

Chromosome

A structure made of DNA and proteins that carries genetic information in cells.

Crossing Over

The exchange of genetic material between paired chromosomes during meiosis, increasing genetic variation.

Diploid

A cell that has two complete sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.

Gamete

A reproductive sex cell, like sperm or egg, that contains half the usual number of chromosomes.

Haploid

Only one set of chromosomes, which is half the number found in body cells.

Homologous Chromosomes

Pairs of chromosomes that are similar in size and shape and carry the same genes, with one coming from each parent.

Meiosis

Type of cell division that produces four haploid cells (gametes), each with half the number of chromosomes and genetic variation.

Replication

The process by which a cell copies its DNA before dividing, ensuring each new cell gets a complete set of genetic information.

Sexual Reproduction

Where two parents contribute genetic material to produce offspring with a unique combination of traits.

Sister Chromatid

One of two identical copies of a chromosome that are joined together after DNA replication.

Somatic Cell

Any body cell that is not a reproductive cell and contains a full set of chromosomes.

Tetrad

Group of four chromatids formed when homologous chromosomes pair up during meiosis.

Zygote

A fertilized egg cell formed when two gametes join, containing a full set of chromosomes from both parents.