Meiosis & Sexual Reproduction

These flashcards cover key terms related to meiosis and sexual reproduction, aiding in the understanding of genetic concepts.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that reduces the number of chromosomes, creating four haploid cells from one diploid cell.

Genetic Diversity

The variety of different genetic makeups within a population, which can increase through processes like recombination and independent assortment during meiosis.

Diploid (2n)

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

Haploid (n)

A cell that contains only one set of chromosomes, such as gametes (sperm and egg).

Allele

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

Fertilization

The process where two gametes (sperm and egg) fuse to form a diploid zygote.

Crossing Over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during Prophase I of meiosis, contributing to genetic variation.

Independent Assortment

The random distribution of maternal and paternal chromosomes into gametes during metaphase I of meiosis.

Synapsis

The pairing of homologous chromosomes during Prophase I of meiosis, which facilitates crossing over.

Karyotype

A visual representation of the complete set of chromosomes in an organism, arranged in pairs.

Tetrads

A structure containing four chromatids that forms during Prophase I when homologous chromosomes pair up.

Recombination

The process of forming new allele combinations in offspring by the exchange of genetic material.