Principles of Biology: Meiotic Division and Genetic Variation

These flashcards cover key concepts related to meiotic division and genetic variation, including definitions and fundamental processes involved in sexual reproduction.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in four genetically distinct gametes.

Independent Assortment

The random orientation of homologous chromosome pairs during meiosis I, leading to genetic variation.

Fertilization

The process of gamete fusion that generates genetic variation by combining alleles from two parents.

Recombination

The process during meiosis I that produces chromosomes with different combinations of alleles than those found in the parent organism.

Genetic Variation

Differences in DNA sequences among individuals, which contribute to diversity in traits.

Asexual Reproduction

A reproductive process that involves a single parent, resulting in offspring that are genetically identical to the parent.

Sexual Reproduction

A reproductive process that involves two parents, resulting in offspring that inherit genetic material from both.

Diploid Cell

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

Homologous Chromosomes

Chromosome pairs, one from each parent, that are similar in shape, size, and genetic content.