Cellular Reproduction

These flashcards cover key concepts related to cellular reproduction, focusing on chromosome number, the cell cycle, mitosis, meiosis, and genetic material organization.

What is the difference between haploid, diploid, and polyploid cells?

Haploid cells (n) have one set of chromosomes, diploid cells (2n) have two sets, and polyploid cells have more than two sets of chromosomes.

What process produces gametes with half the number of chromosomes?

Meiosis produces gametes with half the number of chromosomes.

What is karyotyping?

Karyotyping is the process of looking at and counting chromosomes in a cell, generally during metaphase.

What is the main phase of the cell cycle where most growth occurs?

Interphase is where most of the growth and metabolic activity occurs.

What are homologous chromosomes?

Homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes that carry the same genes, but may have different alleles.

What are the main events that occur during interphase?

During interphase, cells grow (G1 phase), replicate DNA (S phase), and prepare for division (G2 phase).

What is the significance of crossing over in meiosis?

Crossing over increases genetic diversity by exchanging genetic material between homologous chromosomes.

What is the significance of nondisjunction in cellular reproduction?

Nondisjunction can lead to chromosomal disorders such as Down syndrome due to abnormal chromosome numbers.

What is the outcome of mitosis?

Mitosis results in two identical daughter cells with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell.

What role do sex chromosomes play in humans?

Sex chromosomes (X and Y) determine the biological sex of an individual.